Helene Darroze at The Connaught

Luxury brunch

Helene Darroze at The Connaught

Every Saturday inside The 5 star Connaught Hotel, its main restaurant Helene Darroze turns into a brunch heaven, American style. In a semi buffet system, guests get to eat as much starters and desserts and pick a main course which is cooked to order. This is my second time trying out Helene Darroze's Saturday brunch.

charcuteries

Basque black pork

A lovely selection of charcuteries were served on the starter table, the house special Basque black pork charcuterie from Pierre Oteiza was just pure class, freshly sliced off, I just couldn't get enough of that beautiful rich oily and nutty notes of the ham. Some amazing duck and chicken livers were also on display, the richness was just right with the earthy flavours not overpowering. 

starter table

risotto of Acquerello rice, roasted cep, chesnut & parmesan

quenelle of blue lobster, parsley, mushroom & sorrel

My main of quenelle of blue lobster was light and flavoursome at the same time, the herbal parsley and the texture of the sorrel worked nicely with the sweetness of the fresh lobster. The risotto of Acquerello rice was cooked perfectly with the parmesan and earthy cep and black trumpet mushroom added a well rounded flavour. Some lovely desserts were on offer, by far the best on the day was the lemon cheesecake, it had the perfect balance of sharpness and sweetness. The freshly made waffle was also outstanding, light and and not overly crispy.

cheeses

dessert table

pies and waffle

There was a lot to love at the brunch at Helene Darroze. All the ingredients were top notch and well seasoned. The setting is classy but not outdated and the service is as good as what you would get at a 5 star hotel. Without a doubt not a cheap place for brunch but if you are looking for a top level and refined brunch experience, I can't think of a better place other than Helene Darroze at The Connaught. 

Food 4/5

Executive chef: 
Helene Darroze

What I paid: 
£70 per head with water

Average cost without drinks and services :
Brunch menu: £55

Carlos Pl  London W1K 2AL

http://www.the-connaught.co.uk/mayfair-restaurants/helene-darroze