Le Gavroche

London’s first destination restaurant has been at the top of the capital’s dining scene for 40 years

Members choose Le Gavroche:

For special occasions, particularly romantic ones.
For its food – this is traditional French cooking at its best.
For its classic style.

In 1967 Michel and Albert Roux opened Le Gavroche in Chelsea, introducing the UK to French fine dining and, ultimately, its greatest culinary dynasty. Michel went on to open the Waterside Inn in Bray, which he has since passed on to his son Alain. Albert, meanwhile, helmed Le Gavroche until he too passed the restaurant to his son, Michel Roux Jr.

Almost half a century and a relocation to Mayfair later and the two-Michelin-starred Le Gavroche remains one of London’s gastronomic temples, its kitchen a hallowed ground where Marco Pierre White, Gordon Ramsay and Marcus Wareing honed their skills.

Michel Roux Jr gave the menu a lighter, modern touch when he took over in 1991, adding a dash of Asian flavour with dishes such as the foie gras and crispy pancake of duck and the lobster salad with mango and lime. But Le Gavroche remains a beacon of classic French food. Duck foie gras terrine, veal in a morel sauce and roast suckling pig are among our members’ favourites dishes, while first-time diners shouldn’t miss the signature soufflé suissesse, at once delicate and satisfyingly, unctuously rich.

It’s a formal venue, where male diners arrive in jackets and the food arrives on silver platters, but it’s also generous with its hospitality. Chef Roux regularly steps out of the kitchen to greet diners.

'The classic style and comfortable basement setting mean this restaurant is recommended for dinner,' says restaurant expert Hernan Castro-Vidal. 'It’s at its very best in the evening – let us secure you one of the sought-after banquette tables for a romantic occasion. Expect faultless service and a superb wine selection, with well-spaced tables offering privacy and a hushed atmosphere.'

Le Gavroche is one of the few London restaurants capable of inspiring intense loyalty among diners, and its blend of relaxed hospitality and serious food will likely keep it at the top of London’s restaurant scene for another 50 years.

Insider tips

The set lunch menu is one of London’s great fine dining bargains, offering three courses and half bottle of wine per person for £48.50. Ask us to book.
Look out for Le Gavroche’s bespoke plates, featuring an image of chef Roux.
The dress code is ‘smart casual’ and men are required to wear a jacket.