NESTLED in the buzzing streets of Mayfair, London, Bar Des Prés is a gastronomic haven that seamlessly blends the flair of French cuisine with the artistry and charm of Japanese culinary traditions.
This unique and, somewhat unexpected, fusion, curated by renowned Chef Cyril Lignac, promises an extraordinary dining experience for those who seek an alternative from the classic small plates offering, which recently dominated London’s gastronomical scene.
Bar Des Prés dining room
Stepping into Bar Des Prés immediately brings a sense of serenity, which I am particularly appreciative of in the unforgiving January weather. The dining room is adorned with delicate floral arrangements and contemporary art amidst a backdrop of warm, neutral tones. Tall taupe booths lining one side of the room evoke the intimate ambiance reminiscent of a Parisian Saint-Germain restaurant.
We are seated at the long, marble counter dining bar where we can observe chefs and bartenders prepare elaborate dishes and cocktails. The fast-paced nature of the kitchen fuels anticipation for the forthcoming mouth-watering courses, which are being carefully assembled in front of our eyes.
We opt for one of the signature cocktails to begin our evening. Paloma Poppy catches my eye; a delicious bled of Mezcal infused with thyme and sour notes of lemon and grapefruit arrives in a tall glass. Each sip, filled with freshness of sour flavours evokes a slight nudge of summer nostalgia.
The menu invites the guests to start the journey with Raw and Marinated section. First to arrive is marinated seabass topped with yuzu, dry miso and rocoto and, as a big enthusiast of sashimi myself, I indulge in the delicate thinly sliced fish mixed perfectly with more distinctive, zesty notes of the garnish.
A Bar Des Prés staple follows—the crunchy crab and avocado galette with madras—exciting us with its explosion of colours and a fascinating combination of texture and rich flavours. Next comes most anticipated yellowtail, “pommes paille” California roll. Bringing a hint of heat with the jalapeño garnish, the roll is a beautiful array of subtle, yet distinctive flavours.
Crunchy crab and avocado galette with madras
Afterwards it’s the time to explore the Terre & Mer part of the menu. I’m intrigued by the langoustine ravioli, which arrives coated in extremely delicate and creamy bisque -a traditional French soup. The dish is an ode to lightness. Its cosy and warming flavours seamlessly compliment the subtle tenderness of the langoustine without overpowering it.
Followed by black cod, adorned with a coat of caramelised miso, baby spinach and sprinkle of sesame seeds. Accompanied by the side of sushi rice, the dish disappears from the plate at the record speed – an undisputed favourite.
Despite the indulgence, dessert beckons. A beautifully assembled pavlova filled with coconut ice cream and crowned with sweet vanilla Chantilly is a nice, not too heavy option to satisfy any pudding lover. Fruity notes of passionfruit melting together with the sweetness of coconut create an absolute dream for the taste buds.
We finish with a nod to the French dessert staple – Mille-feuille boasting impressively stacked layers of puff pastry and vanilla cream, which leave us more than satisfied.
Solely during January, the guests will also be able to try French-Asian lemon and yuzu galette, a limited edition special added to the regular menu to celebrate a French dessert traditionally shared early in the year.
Mille-feuille
Bar Des Prés proves to be a haven where unexpected fusions melt seamlessly resulting in a delightful and inventive culinary experience. From the meticulous attention to detail in every dish to the warm and friendly service of the waiting staff, we leave the restaurant happy, inspired and, undeniably, full.
by Olga Petrusewicz
To book visit Bar Des Prés.
16 Albemarle St, Mayfair, W1S 4HW, London