A traditional French brassiere is a semi-formal stylish, and elegant establishment. Initially, a place that brewed and served beer, eventually providing food. They depict the Parisian image of dining alfresco, drinking beer or wine, and enjoying traditional French food, such as Onion soup or Coq au vin, while watching the world go by.
Today, they tend to be open all day, serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner. So, how does Balthazar measure up?
Balthazar’s location on the ground floor of the Covent Garden Flower Cellars is fitting, with its large opening and spacious area. The restaurant makes a statement with dark wood, bright red leather banquette seating, and white tablecloths cloaking the tables topped with a candle, an all-typical brassiere-style decor.
While there might not be an outside terrace for people-watching, the oversized mirrors allow for a feeling of space and add light. They also provide the opportunity to observe what is happening. After all, most of us like to check out what other diners are tucking into.
Walking through the big, elaborately decorated doors, you notice the buzzing, vibrant atmosphere. The restaurant is popular and gets busy. Like a Parisian brasserie, the Balthazar is full of energy.
Balthazar attracts tourists visiting Covent Garden. Its location in the heart of theatre land brings in opera and theatregoers. It is also a popular eatery for locals, who might visit for brunch or lunch or enjoy a special occasion.
Food
Balthazar serves a variety of menus, starting with their,
The Prix Fixe menu is served Monday to Friday, 11.30 am to 7.00 pm. Two courses are £24.50, and three courses are £27.95.
The menu includes Entrées such as a Pea and Courgette soup with mint crème fraîche or Duck Liver Parfait with caramelised hazelnuts, spiced pear chutney, and toasted brioche.
Plats Principaux includes Rosemary and Red wine braised chicken leg or a vegetarian option of Roasted Butternut Squash with harissa yoghurt, chickpeas, quinoa, mint, and feta cheese.
Les Desserts are Crème Brûlée and Chocolate Brownie with Salted Caramel ice cream.
The A La Carte menu offers traditional French favourites like,
- Onion Soup Gratinée for £9.75
- Steak Tartare at £11.50
- Caviar (30g) served with blinis and crème fraîche for £55.00
- Balthazar Seafood Stew with prawns, squid, mussels, scallops, samphire, potatoes, lentils, and rouille crostini at £35.50
- Côte de Boeuf, 12oz (340g), 28-day aged for £35.50
The Brasserie serves a popular Brunch menu at weekends and bank holidays from 10.00 am to 4 pm. Also available are a Children’s menu and a Group menu for parties larger than eight.
Drinks
Balthazar serves an extensive Drinks menu, with a traditional French Martini, Grey Goose vodka, pineapple juice and Chambord, for £14.00.
A seasonal wine list is available, and at this time, spring welcomes wines from the Loire Valley, such as a Sancerre, priced at £13.00 a glass, £38.00 a carafe, and £72.00 for a bottle.
Final Thoughts
Balthazar successfully gives the impression of a Parisian-style Brasserie. Although some say the seating is a bit cramped and reducing the noise levels by a few notches would be appreciated, the venue goes down well. The ambience, the friendly staff, the presentation and the taste of the food are exceptional.
The price is reasonable when considering the quality and style of cuisine.
Our Rating
Practical Information
Opening hours:
- Monday to Friday, 11.30 am to 10.45 pm
- Saturday, 10.00 am to 10.45 pm
- Sunday, 10.00 am to 9.45 pm
Address: 4 – 6 Russell Street, London, WC2B 5HZ
Telephone: 020 3301 1155