On a leafy square in Islington, The London Foodie, Luiz Hara’s quaint London home was the perfect setting for a special supper to celebrate 300 years of Martell Cognac.
We sat in friendly communal tables, with low lighting and a cosy setting, which made the atmosphere super relaxed.
The Food and Drink
Of course, we had to start with a Martell Cognac VS Champagne cocktail which helped shake off the day’s stresses and get us in the mood for the food ahead.
Easing us into the meal ahead, we had a beautifully chilled tomato juice, mascarpone and basil cream soup with parmesan crisps. Refreshing and light, we took our time savouring this starter.
For the premiere entrée, we were served a classic Provencal dish Bandade de Morue au Gratin – salt cod, cream and garlic in a gratin, served with roasted tomatoes on the vine, a poached quail egg and leaves. Are you drooling yet?
We were starting to get full by this point but we found room once the second entrée came along. Baked camembert with garlic, rosemary and honey, brown sugar roasted ham, gherkins and French bread. Food heaven.
With a little rest between, the Plat Principal arrived in lavish amounts. Roast monkfish fillet was served with a saffron-scented mussel ragout, with sides of pommes dauphine and a fresh, herby green salad. Totally delectable, we couldn’t put our forks down.
By this time, conversation was flowing and that’s when the epic cheeseboard by Androuet Maitre Fromager hit the table. Served with all the trimmings, we sat for a good hour chatting, nibbling and umm-ing and ahh-ing over it.
But that wasn’t all. To soak up all the wonderful wine and satisfy our sweet tooth, a tarte tatin with rosemary, flaked almonds and crème fraiche was served which we happily put away without a moment’s hesitation.
We couldn’t turn down any sort of digestif and it turns out we got a Martell Cognac tasting to boot. It’s safe to say, we’re now avid cognac connoisseurs. The Martell Cordon Bleu was the winner hands down.
The Details
Celebrating 300 years of Martell Cognac, The London Foodie’s Very Special Night Supper Club was a one-off but Luiz hosts regular nights with a French themed menu, as well as delicious Japanese Supper Club evenings.
Per person, it costs £45 + service (supper club), and you can BYO. BONUS.
For more details, visit Luiz Hara’s blog: TheLondonFoodie.com
The Verdict
Top marks for amazing French home cooking, impeccable service and a buzz-filled night had by all.
We’re coming back and that’s a threat.
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