Tag Archives: fine dining

The Golden Well, Prague

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For our final meal in Prague we went somewhere quite special. The Golden Well, or U Zlate Studne in Czech, is known for its great location and wonderful views of the capital. With a glass of champagne in hand overlooking the beaming city, at last I could breathe a sign of relief and gather my thoughts. The weekend, albeit wonderful, had been a mad rush to see and do it all, but up here the adrenalin abated and we were able to spend a few totally relaxed hours enjoying a classy but relaxed meal.

The menu includes traditional Czech classics alongside more familiar dishes, it all sounded delicious and I struggled with the overload of information. Eventually deciding on a refreshing cucumber salad with parmesan crisps and pinenuts, and king prawns with avocado. Subtle seasoning flavoured these fresh and vibrant ingredients… both starters felt appropriately light for the summer heat.

Mains were a little richer – steak with foie gras and truffle and chicken schnitzel with mashed potato. As expected the steak was indulgent and full of flavour, we were thankful for the accompanying grilled vegetables. It arrived presented beautifully and sitting in a pool of marvellously tasty gravy! The chicken was a smarter version of the children’s classic breaded chicken, and I felt a little silly choosing such a plain dish, even though the Golden Well chef had done it justice.

Vanilla pannacotta with strawberry compote and luxurious chocolate brownie completed our most memorable meal in Prague. What a lovely restaurant and view, it still makes me smile thinking of it now.

More information here.

www.goldenwell.cz

Alain Ducasse at The Dorchester, Park Lane

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If you are a foodie living in London you will definitely know about Alain Ducasse’s 3* eatery at the Dorchester. This legendary French chef is a magician in the kitchen and renowned the world over. Unlike his competitors Gordon Ramsay and Heston Blumenthal, he avoids drama and his reputation remains unchallenged.

Ducasse does not obsess about molecular gastronomy and science, instead his culinary creations are based on classic recipes, traditional techniques and the highest-quality seasonal produce.

I have eaten in several of his restaurants now, perhaps most memorably the charming brasserie, Benoit in Paris. Although his restaurant at the Dorchester is rather more refined, the mood and ambience is similarly unassuming. Remembering some embarrassingly pretentious Michelin dining experiences, it is amazing that this prestigious central London restaurant manages to ensure all guests feel at ease, whether they are wearing their poshest attire or not.

There were various amuse-bouches, but it was nice not to be bombarded with too many extra treats. The most delicious were the tiny salt-and-pepper cheese puff balls made with the lightest choux pastry imaginable.

I think I made an error in the starter I chose. The waiter assured me that raw and cooked vegetables are a firm seasonal speciality on the menu and that sold the dish to me. It looked astoundingly beautiful and the flavours were wonderful, but all in all it wasn’t a dish to die for and this what I have come to expect from restaurants with the ultimate three Michelin star recognition. In contrast, the Saute gourmand of lobster, truffled chicken quenelles and homemade pasta was satisfyingly supreme and my guest was mockingly delighted that he had chosen so well.

Both the lamb and the pigeon main courses were delicious, presented immaculately, with fresh simply cooked vegetables and dressed with spectacular sauces. Intrigued about the cheese on offer, we ordered a plate to share but found it to be wholly disappointing. At this Dorchester restaurant, we were not invited to choose our cheese but rather presented with a plate of one they’d prepared in the kitchen, so we didn’t get to select our favourite fromages.

Desserts were simple and classic, executed to perfection. There was nothing fussy about these puddings, the emphasis obviously on taste. Politely declining a tea infusion from the trolley of intriguing looking shrubs, we completed our Alain Ducasse experience with the ultimate French fancies; macaroons and praline chocolates.

Will this man ever cease to amaze? Although the Dorchester is London’s most famous hotel, their chosen chef comes from across the channel.

More information and see the menus here.

Eleven, Lisbon

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Eleven Restaurant is a project created by eleven friends, including the restaurant’s chef. Since opening in November 2003, almost ten years ago, this venue has been known as one of Lisbon’s trendiest eateries. The menu offers a fresh and vibrant array of Mediterranean and Portuguese cuisine created with an emphasis on seasonal ingredients.

Perched at the top of a huge hill overlooking expansive lush green gardens, the restaurant has a superior view of the Portuguese capital. The large windows ensure the dining room is bright and airy for the guests, a feature I appreciated as I always like to be able to see what I am eating. Diners can look over the whole of Lisbon, benefitting from the exuberant natural light outside.

Joachim Koerper is a creative chef with ample experience to head up any restaurant. After working in prestigious French and Spanish kitchens he brings a wealth of knowledge to the Eleven Restaurant.

It is a simply designed building, with plenty of space for large groups and parties. Upstairs there is room for private occasions and in the hall an impressive bookshelf is stacked with all the Michelin restaurant guides since 1903, a reminder of the lost star at this eatery.

During the week there is a reasonably priced express lunch menu, but we chose from the varied a la carte. After a lovely glass of Portuguese sparkling wine the meal commenced, a mix of fish, meat and vegetable dishes. The most memorable starter was the hot and cheesy risotto with Scallops. A creamy and comforting bowl that was surprisingly light and addictively delicious.

The pick of the mains was the Roast Lobster with soft polenta and green vegetables. Perfectly cooked and seasoned, it was a lovely special dish. My lamb with rosemary had a pleasant flavour but was rather dry and chewy.

Before rejoining the bustle of the city, we scoffed some puddings. I chose the selection of miniatures allowing us to taste all the options on the menu. A crème brulee roll (!) and a refreshing boule of coconut ice-cream with spun sugar were the two highlights.

Out of the main city centre this restaurant’s location is both a help and a hindrance to its popularity but it is perfect for groups or those wishing to enjoy a calm and refined meal whilst watching over Lisbon.

More information here.