The Ritz is a byword for opulence and dining here is something to which all bon viveurs aspire, writes Colette Doyle. Luxury comes as standard, as frock-coated waiters cater to your every whim and each patron, whether they have a title or not, is made to feel special. If you like understated minimalism you may have to book elsewhere: gold statues of Neptune and Venus take centre stage amid the floor-to-ceiling windows, dazzling chandeliers, plush red carpets and multi-panelled mirrors.
My guest and I try the menu surprise, a six-course tasting menu created by Chef John Williams MBE and start off with an astonishing array of amuse-bouches. Next up, a glass of pinot blanc accompanies heirloom tomato salad with lobster and tomato consommΓ© and delicate basil mousse.
The tasting menu expertly matches each course with a vintage libation, so a Cloudy Bay sauvignon blanc is paired with salmon in a creamy hollandaise sauce and a Stagβs Leap sauvignon from the Napa Valley accompanies delicate langoustines with pumpkin purΓ©e, carrot, courgette and lobster sauce. Whispering Angel is the delightful sounding name of the next wine up, a CΓ΄tes de Provence rosΓ© that we opt for instead of red, which goes perfectly with the filet of beef served alongside sautΓ©ed foie gras, truffles and mushrooms. For dessert, the ChΓ’teau Beaulon Pineau des Charentes is delightful when sipped with a concoction of strawberry sorbet and vanilla parfait.
For a special occasion, whether thatβs a business lunch to impress overseas or VIP contacts, a dinner to thank existing clients, or a treat for a loved one, The Ritz remains Londonβs quintessential dining experience.
The Ritz; 150 Piccadilly, London W1J 9BR; 020 7493 8181; theritzlondon.com
