In the historic quarter of London’s Spitalfields resides one of Galvin Restaurants‘ lesser known gems. Unless you’re a banker or read certain foodie guides, you’re likely to miss this coveted French cuisine beauty. I say beauty and I mean it, the 30 metre high-vaulted ceiling of this Grade II-listed Victorian old school chapel is spectacular. Grand, luxurious and formal; the award-winning lighting may give you a sore neck from ogling upwards, but it’s worth it. Rustic and Cathedral-esque, only the food is likely to bring your eyes back down to seating level – and don’t forget, Galvin La Chapelle still holds one Michelin star. Fancy.
Under Chef Patron Jeff Galvin’s instruction, we sampled an Escoffier-inspired menu, simplifying only in presentation the altogether luxurious menu. As sister in-law Sara Galvin sat us down, a sense of domestic welcome overcame me – and the more time I spent there, the more I liked it. Not quite knowing what the Consommé Navarin might be, when the rich beef stock and crayfish arrived… my gosh, was I in consommé heaven? Presented on large thick gleaming china the Foie gras et truffe en chemise followed. Teeny it looked against the white plate, the sweetness and faultless texture packed distinguished flavour. Smooth and creamy and matched with 2010 Jurancon Clos Thou, I was starting to get rather used to this fancy fare. All the while, as you sit and eat, the ambiance at Galvin La Chapelle heightens in romance and magic.
A little foodie Hogwarts for adults perhaps, there was sparkle around every corner. There is even a private dining mezzanine in the heavens should you fancy a mini-party. Overall I thoroughly enjoyed all that is Galvin La Chapelle. The entire place made me smile, and this seems to be the aim of the Galvin family as their empire grows. Hats off to you, we say!
Photo © We Heart
Photo © We Heart
Photo © We Heart
Photo © We Heart
Photo © We Heart
