Le Vacherin - London

Cocktail happy hour beforehand was a nice surprise. We had a fabulous meal with excellent service. The food was all divine and the presentation was wonderful.

The prix fixe Sunday Lunch menu at le Vacherin must surely be one of the best kept value secrets among the restaurant dining fraternity, as my wife and I rediscovered recently. A three course spread for £36.00 per head! No compromises in the standards of what comes out of the kitchen nor of the attentive service on offer in the dining room, either. Our recent foray there found us both starting with ping pong ball sized 'bon bons ' of crisp pigs head ' translated perhaps as slow cooked shredded pig 's cheek each nestling in a crispy coating, with Ravigote saucing aside. My wife went on to a classic slow cook Daube de Boeuf plus accompaniments while I myself greatly enjoyed generous portions of aged Hereford beef, cooked pink, and starring as the basis of a traditional Sunday roast. Crème Brulées flavoured with Madagascan vanilla provided yet another classic with which to finish our meal. Additional cost of drinks and service aside, this represents quite extraordinary value for money these days from a restaurant that has consistently kept its standards very high.

Last night's visit to Vacherine was a little disappointing. The food was much more expensive than the last time we visited and the table the four of us were seated in was near the window and very cold. Staff were helpful but service was slower than usual. Not the most welcoming atmosphere this time. Twice baked souffle was delicious but a £6.50 surcharge was added this time on the fixed price menu.

Wonderful food, setting and service as always from Le Vacherin.

Fabulous value the 5 course menu was excellent. Charming service too and a delightful, calm ambience. Just the place if you like a starched linen tablecloth.