Classic Elegance at the Brompton Bar and Grill

I'm not usually one to knock themed restaurants, nor an interesting concept, nor a restaurant experience that comes a little out of left field, but sometimes the classic way is just the best way. Elegant surroundings, recognisable but sophisticated dishes done seriously well, white tablecloths and impeccable, discreet service. All these things may be 'unoriginal' but it's a winning formula that many bastions of the restaurant world rely on, and that the punter knows they can trust. In Knightsbridge particularly, you get one of two things: seriously bling, or old-world refinement. The Brompton Bar & Grill is a sterling example of the latter. It reminded Sarah and I slightly of a chic Paris brasserie, with the simple illustrated pictures adorning the back wall, a classic dark wooden bar dominating the front one, crisp white tablecloths and a menu full of European contemporary favourites, which when they arrived, were cooked to perfection.

After some pretty superb cocktails from a well edited menu of old classics and contemporary twists (the Gin Aperol Spritz was a stand out) we kicked off the culinary proceedings with the dressed dorset crab on crispy brown toast with lemon, and the mushroom ravioli. The crab was beautifully smooth and fresh, and the raviolo a great mix of earthiness and well managed textures. Thumbs up for both, particularly the crab, which was simply a top quality rendition of one of my favourite classic dishes.

 

We followed up with a classic dover sole (which was done exquisitely, the texture just right and the sauce nicely tangy) with creamed spinach and handcut chips, as well as a wonderful confit of duck with lentils, bacon and shallots which was wonderfully rich in different wintry flavours and textures.

Finishing up, we couldn't resist the chocolate fondant with pistachio ice cream (my favourite!) as well as the rhubarb crumble with vanilla crumble, which was also excellent, with the crumble topping being slightly crunchy - just as I like it.

Washed down with a fantastic bottle of the house white, this was an evening full of delicious European favourites, all of fantastic quality, with old world service in an elegant locale. I would heartily recommend it.

Brompton Bar & Grill
243 Brompton Road
London SW3 2EP

For bookings call: 0207 589 8005