13/10/2004
Sam

I went to Le Bouchon the Saturday before last with my boyfriend. We were looking for somewhere to go late Saturday afternoon and called Le Bouchon who managed to juggle a couple of things around and squeeze us in at 8:45. We had a drink in the lively, buzzy bar before dinner and were in great spirits by the time we were seated at our table by a waiter, who was very flamboyant and seemed to carry an uplifting atmosphere around with him, which really set the mood.

I started with the pan fried foie gras which was done to perfection and had fantastic flavours, my boyfriend had the oysters which he claimed were very good (I’m not a great fan!). For main course I had sea bass with creamed spinach as an accompaniment, again the flavours were wonderful! My boyfriend chose the squid ink risotto which, although the name sounded a bit off putting to me, tasted amazing; very rich but not too heavy. I couldn’t help taking a few sneaky bites! We nearly declined the offer of dessert as we were both quite full but then my boyfriend spotted the cheeseboard and after being stunned by the maitre d’s impressive knowledge of the cheeses couldn’t help himself. There was a wide range of cheeses available and a velvet case full of biscuits, the cheeses ranged from light and crumbly, to thick and gooey, to strong and smelly. My boyfriend unfortunately choose 5 of the most ridiculously strong smelling cheeses, much to my disgust, but enjoyed every mouthful! I decided to go with something a little lighter and chose a pear sorbet with champagne poured over it which was absolutely delicious! I haven’t spotted that dessert since I was last in Spain, where I fell in love with it, so was particularly happy with my choice.

The bill came to around £70 with a service charge included. I wouldn’t say that this restaurant was “value for money” but it is much better value than central London prices and the atmosphere is far more upbeat and enjoyable. The waiters and waitresses really make the evening. Certainly somewhere to go if you feel you need cheering up!!

02/09/2004
Madrid

Following a rave review in the Observer, I decided to go back to Le Bouchon as it had disappointed me 10 years ago.

Well well well, the addition of Roux in the management has done nothing. Terrible service (Slowwwwwwwwwwwwww and rude), burned snailed and overpriced food. They also desperatly try to make you drink as much mineral water and wine as they can.

CONCLUSION: I might go again in 10 years time when Oliver joins.

AVOID AVOID AVOID

01/07/2003
Nick Warn

£8.50 for an OJ totally overpriced menu limited steak n frite better served elsewhere. Plus the manager seemed to have delusions of grandeur. Wouldn't return if you paid me!

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