Restaurant review: Galvin Restaurant, La Chapelle

Our feature writer enjoyed a stunning 5 course tasting menu and wine pairing at one of The Galvin Restaurants, La Chapelle. A gorgeous French dining experience in Spitalfields. In the cultural and bustling scenes of  London. Only a 5 minute walk away from London Liverpool Street, you feel as though you have stepped into a Parisian dream…

It was like stepping into another world when I entered Galvin La Chapelle, where the cliché of ‘fine dining meets architectural grandeur’ describes it perfectly. Nestled in the heart of London’s Spitalfields, this Michelin-starred restaurant is housed in a Grade II listed, restored girls school called St Botolph’s Hall which was constructed in the 1800s. It’s a space that radiates romance, and timeless sophistication.

As one of PA Life’s recommended suppliers, Galvin Restaurants operate a portfolio of distinctive venues across London and Essex. Each committed to using seasonal and sustainable produce. As well as delivering outstanding service, offering an elevated experience.

At La Chapelle, Executive Chef Arturo Granato brings classic French cuisine to life with a contemporary twist. Across the Galvin group, chefs are encouraged to express their creativity. You can taste that freedom in every thoughtfully composed dish. From delicate starters to rich, comforting mains, every plate is a celebration of flavour.

The restaurant strikes a perfect balance between grandeur and intimacy. Towering arched windows bathe the space in natural light by day, while by night, it transforms into a cocoon of candlelit charm. It’s the kind of place where special occasions are made even more memorable, and where weekday dinners feel like something worth dressing up for.

Whether you’re planning a romantic evening, an impressive client dinner, or a celebratory gathering, Galvin La Chapelle offers an unforgettable experience.

French dining experience in Spitalfields

The menu presents a refined take on modern French cuisine — elegant, creative, and full of surprising twists that delight the palate. We began with champagne on arrival, setting the tone for an indulgent evening. This was followed by freshly baked bread served with lemon-infused butter — wonderfully fresh, with a subtle sweetness that was simply irresistible.

After a few appetisers, we embarked on the tasting menu. The first course was cured sea bream, served with a sliver of cucumber, green pepper kimchi, and Oscietra caviar. Paired with an incredibly smooth South African white wine. This was one of my favourite courses — the fish was exquisitely tender, and when combined with the wine, the flavours blended beautifully and melted in the mouth.

Next came the duck liver “Rocher”, accompanied by mango, coconut, and caramelised popcorn speckles. I had never tried anything like it before — sweet and creamy. With the richness of the liver lingering delicately beneath the smoothness of the Rocher.

We then moved on to the Cornish stone bass with artichoke barigoule, sea herbs and a clam velouté. Light, refreshing, and incredibly tender, the fish was buttery and fell apart effortlessly. The fish dishes on this menu were true highlights.

Our Favourite

Then came the showstopper: slow-cooked short ribs with whisky, potato rösti, tropea onion and wild rocket. I made sure to get a little of everything on one forkful, and the result was immaculate. The crispness of the rösti, the melt-in-the-mouth short ribs, and the sweet sharpness of the onion sauce combined to absolute perfection. I could have easily eaten three more plates. This course was paired with a bold French red wine that tied it all together beautifully.

Finally, we finished with the Manjari chocolate “bonbon” — served with pecan, salted caramel, and tonka, and accompanied by a dark sweet wine our waiter described as “like Christmas pudding in a glass.” I’m not usually a fan of sweet wines, but this one had a wonderful balance and completely won me over. The dessert was small, rich, and the perfect way to end a spectacular meal.

Private Dining at La Chapelle

La Chapelle offer multiple private dining areas. Located in ‘The Gallery’ which is on the mezzanine, offering a table fitting 16 people. They also offer a semi-private, private dining experience – ‘The Arch’ seating up to 27 guests. They also have exclusive hire that offers ‘110 seated, 150 standing.’ The space is flooded with natural light during the day and softly lit in the evening, with views of the striking vaulted ceilings ideal for both daytime lunches and candlelit dinners. Whether you’re planning an intimate celebration or a grand event, the venue provides versatile options to suit various occasions.

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