Tried & tasted: Marco Grill

The name Marco Pierre White is synonymous with a great gastronomic experience and Marco Grill at Stamford Bridge combines his signature style with the relaxed atmosphere of a steakhouse, writes Molly Dyson. Circular booths with comfy leather seats frame the dining room and autographed images of celebrities hang on the mirror-effect walls, paying homage to the lively nightlife of London.

After we arrive, the tables start to fill up and there is a buzz of conversation. We order the house red, a delightfully fruity Alto Bajo 2012 Chilean Merlot. For starters, I go for the pan-fried scallops and chorizo with black olive oil. The flavours mix nicely, making this an enjoyable dish. I sneak a taste of my partner’s Dorset crab on toasted sourdough and it doesn’t disappoint.

The menu is simple and has a decent selection for those who didn’t come for the steak. We did, though, so I choose the 8oz fillet with a side of Jersey new potatoes. The cut of meat is superb and has been prepared just right – light on seasoning and cooked medium-rare. Every bite of succulent beef dipped in a divine béarnaise sauce virtually melts in my mouth. My dining companion’s 10oz sirloin with a side of fries and blue cheese sauce seems to be pleasing him, but I decline a bite, as my potatoes are very moreish and I have to save room for dessert.

I can’t resist sweets so, despite feeling fairly full, I order Executive Head Chef Roger Pizey’s signature apple tarte tatin. My stamina falters when the huge dish arrives, but I still enjoy the sublime apples on a bed of sweet pastry, covered in warm caramel sauce and served with a scoop of cinnamon ice-cream. My partner, meanwhile, devours his sticky toffee pudding before I can even sneak a glance at it. If you find yourself in the mood for steak, Marco Grill is hard to beat.

Marco Grill; Stamford Bridge, Fulham Road London SW6 1HS; 020 7915 2929; marcogrill.com