Tried & tasted: The Ritz

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 consommé 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 Stag’s Leap sauvignon from the Napa Valley accompanies delicate langoustines with pumpkin purée, carrot, courgette and lobster sauce. Whispering Angel is the delightful sounding name of the next wine up, a Côtes de Provence rosé that we opt for instead of red, which goes perfectly with the filet of beef served alongside sautéed foie gras, truffles and mushrooms. For dessert, the Château Beaulon Pineau des Charentes is delightful when sipped with a concoction of strawberry sorbet and vanilla parfait.

For a special occasion, whether that’s 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 London’s quintessential dining experience.

The Ritz; 150 Piccadilly, London W1J 9BR; 020 7493 8181; theritzlondon.com