Jeff and Chris Galvin opened Galvin Bistro de Luxe some four years ago and I have continued to frequent the establishment despite what I think was a fairly long period for the restaurant to find it's feet.
In early 2006 I remember having a very average Cassoulet , not a patch on Anchor & Hope or Le Vacherin.
I am happy that I have persisted, and now along with Racine and Le Vacherin this is one of the few places in London where you can get very well executed Bourgeois cooking. In fact it's probably the nearest you will get to Aux Lyonnais, Benoit or similar high end "Bistros" found in Paris.
Today Galvin's has a very smooth operation with an excellent front of house and kitchen brigade.
Yesterday my friend Charlie and I both long standing Chelsea supporters had a pre FA Cup Final early lunch which was really very very good.
I started with one of the house staples crab lasagne with a subtle Beurre Nantais sauce . A delicious Daube followed ,on a bed of artichoke risotto. The risotto was unfortunately probably not cooked to order and either cream or mascarpone added to it, a total no no in my book. Saying that the Daube was excellent. To finish off I had a fabulous Chocolate Fondant with orange sorbet.
Charlie was very pleased with his asparagus, poached egg with Hollandaise sauce, Tagine of Lamb and plate of cheese.
The baguette,Echiré butter and coffee were all excellent.
We drank a fine St Aubin followed by a remarkable 2005 Cornas that complimented both the Beef and Lamb.
One could argue that maybe the menu is a bit to eclectic and more French classics should feature but somehow the restaurant gets away with it !
With it's pleasant dinning room and fine service Galvin Bistro de Luxe is one of the restaurants I always enjoy returning to on a regular basis.
2 comments:
I keep meaning to give this place a try although that risotto is not encouraging and I do always think that this style of French food looks so dated. You seem to be a fan though so it seems worth checking out.
Helen I love bourgeois cooking/cuccina de la Nonna and think it is timeless.
At GBDL it is executed in a very refined way maybe to refined butin terms of London there is very little choice.
I prefer to go to Gt Queen St and Anchor and Hope especially in winter for a more laid back atmosphere but nevertheless outstanding food.
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