Restaurant Review: Relais de Venise

London may lack the cosmopolitan al fresco dining culture of our continental neighbours in Paris but that does not mean a traditional and fabulous French culinary experience cannot be enjoyed in our very own capital city.  Relais de Venise is the epitome of French charm.  Located in Marylebone, this compact restaurant serves up arguably the best steak and frites this side of The Channel.  From first approach, it is quite obvious that this place is special, with hungry diners happy to queue (the restaurant does not accept reservations, even for those reviewing the establishment) around the block for a taste of the most succulent steak in town, if not the country.

The restaurant décor is particularly charming and so reminiscent of many a Parisian bistro you’ll soon feel as if you are starring in your own version of popular French film, Amelie.  The efficient staff promptly serve a green salad, topped with crunchy walnuts, water and wine of choice (the house red being a rich, deep, crimson wine, more than satisfactory to one’s taste buds).  Once that has been devoured – and it will be, the dressing on the salad is peppery, sharp and truly delightful – it is on to the steak and frites.  From a silver platter the waiting staff serve slithers of tender steak which literally melts away in the mouth and crispy frites.  Despite the incredible tenderness of the meat, it is actually the accompanying sauce for which the restaurant is most well known.  The recipe unfortunately remains a secret (despite pleading on several occasions) but it is best described as being a peppery, rich, creamy sauce which, without a doubt, contains a morsel of tarragon.  The best bit? Just when you think you’re nearly done, the waiting staff serve the second round of steak and frites!  Dinner at Relais de Venise is a truly delightful dining experience!

While the set menu gives no choice for the first and second course, the dessert menu if filled with taste-bud-tantalising treats in abundance.  However, in my opinion, the only way to finish off this marvellous meal is with a generous portion of Crème Brulee.

For a truly delicious and intimate dining experience, visit Relais de Venise.

Set menu £20 (a vegetarian option is available)

Relais de Venise, 120 Marylebone Lane,  London W1U 2Q

www.relaisdevenise.com