THE TRANSATLANTIC MAGAZINE
THE TRANSATLANTIC MAGAZINE
I don't usually revisit the places I've reviewed, but when Head Chef Ben Boeynaems and Bar Manager Cosmin Trusca created a new pairing menu, I couldn't resist. Especially since I had my glam Nashville niece in tow. I'd forgive you for mistaking us for Richard Gere and Julia Roberts, but I really am her uncle!
Cocktails originated in the United States over two centuries ago. They were popularized in Europe in the early 1900s when American Bars became known for their mixtures of booze, sugar, water and bitters. Fast-forward another hundred years and the cocktail craze is back in full swing. You can even buy them in a can at the corner shop! Thankfully, there are still some fine examples of American Bars in London and Le Magritte is one of them. Dark wood panels, leather, granite and a collection of early 20th century art set a perfect stage for some high-end hooch and a posh nosh. The bar boasts an impressive list of wine and spirits for all tastes, but if you're a bourbon lover, this is your place!
Signature cocktails are £21 a pop and they are served with elegance from a very fine staff. Chef Boeynaems has paired them with "snacks" LOL! Top of the list is Beluga caviar. How's that for a little pick-me-up?
An Empire of Light blended Mahani Mezcal with Cocchi Vermouth di Torino Rosso, Amaro Averna and orange zest oil. The smoky "Negroni" paired nicely with Hereford sliders (£15). Shredded beef, onions and colony sauce (an American-style steak sauce) in sesame seed buns were tasty indeed.
Native lobster rolls (£16) were also well-matched with a Pilgrim. The mix of pisco (a kind of Peruvian grappa), lime and passion fruit was a good call for the sweet shellfish, lightly tossed in spiced mayo and sandwiched in beautiful brioche. A refined version of the New England classic though the ratio of bread to lobster definitely favored the bread.
Truffled Pizza Bianca with artichokes and Serrano (£22) was far beyond snack territory, both in style and substance. French toast with bacon jam and cheddar (£14) were 4 perfect, savory cocktail bites. Something I will steal for my next soirée!
Le Magritte was definitely worth a second visit. The food and drink are excellent and the ambiance mixes timeless allure with a dash of the surreal.
