Twenty-eight storeys up, the Michelin star shines brightly (and rightly) from Galvin at Windows restaurant atop the London Hilton Park Lane where diners are just as likely to ooh and ah over the food and drink as they are about the panoramic views of the city.
I was certainly impressed with my first (and hopefully not last) visit for dinner last week and was pleased to order from Head Chef Joo Won’s Menu Prestige (£70 for three courses, additional side dishes £6 each). A starter course of Jerusalem artichoke velouté with Bayonne ham, king oyster mushroom and truffle was a delightful dish – full of flavour but more delicate than it might sound. Same goes for my main: roasted cutlet of Iberico pork, carrot and cumin purée, cavolo nero, crispy pig’s head and jus Diablo. It packed a meaty wallop to be sure, but with subtle finesse. Nougat parfait with persimmon, Muscovado meringues and black pepper ice cream proved a wise selection for dessert that I can recommend wholeheartedly.
Just as good as Chef Won’s food was Sommelier Max Merkulovs’ wines. I was particularly pleased with glass of Burgundy he paired with my park – Beaune du Chateaut Premier Cru, Bouchard Pere et Fils, 2010.
A taste of the cheeseboard (£12 supplement or £18 as an extra course) and the sip from Merkulovs’ glorious cart o’ cognac rounded out an impeccably pleasant fine dining experience.
Service was as cordial, prompt and informed as I would have hoped for such a wonderful setting.
For an ideal (if not terribly budget friendly) date night (I had the exquisite pleasure of dining with my dear partner, Kemey, who thoroughly enjoyed her meal as well), Galvin is an easy choice.
Come early or stay late to enjoy drinks at the bar while admiring the views. When booking ahead but smart and enquire about tables with the best views.
Galvin at Windows is located at the 28th floor of the London Hilton on Park Lane Hotel, 22 Park Lane, W1K 1BE. Find out more at galvinatwindows.com.
