The Ledbury** London: A lovely long lunch.

Deprecated: ltrim(): Passing null to parameter #1 ($string) of type string is deprecated in /home2/qdgxdzmy/public_html/atozaatar/wp-includes/wp-db.php on line 3030

Deprecated: ltrim(): Passing null to parameter #1 ($string) of type string is deprecated in /home2/qdgxdzmy/public_html/atozaatar/wp-includes/wp-db.php on line 3030

Deprecated: ltrim(): Passing null to parameter #1 ($string) of type string is deprecated in /home2/qdgxdzmy/public_html/atozaatar/wp-includes/wp-db.php on line 3030

Deprecated: ltrim(): Passing null to parameter #1 ($string) of type string is deprecated in /home2/qdgxdzmy/public_html/atozaatar/wp-includes/wp-db.php on line 3030

When planning our recent vacation, realizing we would have a few hours in London, I knew I had to get my priorities straight, starting with where to eat.  As I polled various foodie friends who had been through the city, I received a number of suggestions, but one was listed over and over again — The Ledbury.  Thus, like any good global food lover, I watched the reservation window and pounced on an appointment for a long lunch on our one full afternoon in the city.  Given our short stay in London (under 48 hours), I had booked a hotel in nearby Notting Hill — The Laslett (more on that experience later).  I chose the property primarily because of its location, thus, we could easily stroll to lunch.  Hubs and I lucked out for our brief visit, and had a clear walk to make our 1:15 reservation.

Interested in the comparison, after a disappointing meal the previous night (sorry, Chef Clare), we opted for the full tasting menu at The Ledbury.  Diners with less time should note there was an express lunch available.  All together the meal was comprehensive, delicious, and sublimely elevated.  Plating was a plus, but really, it was the service that took our lunch to the next level.  Whereas Core’s team was professional, they were a bit too formal for my liking.  From our first interaction at The Ledbury (led by the charming GM Darren McHugh), it was clear that service levels were among the highest in the city.  Certainly, there is a time and place for a formal dining experience, but I think true fine dining is a blend of beautiful dishes, local ingredients, and atmosphere.  Much like our delightful lunch at Librije’s Zusje last summer, our meal at The Ledbury will stay with us for quite some time.

Of all the dishes to enjoy, my favorite was actually a secret course not listed on the menu (yes, details like that are what make this place stand out).  The meaty, perfectly smoked Hen of the Woods, was the most amazing thing I ate last month (and I ate a lot of food in July).  Secondly, and also vegetarian, was the Sweetcorn course (pictured below).  Really, if someone could prepare vegetarian dishes for me like this every day, it would be easy to go without meat.  Furthermore, I would be remiss if I didn’t mention the Cheese Toastie with Truffle, which was included in the snacks, and a treat I would happily enjoy on any menu.  As a final favorite course, the Warm Bantam’s Egg (also pictured below) was another absolutely delicious dish, and really, it made me realize how little eggs (especially on their own) are incorporated into degustations.  Honestly, I think it’s sort of brilliant, and would happily eat the larger egg with its dried ham and rich yolk and other accompaniments any time of day.  Each of the above dishes was well balanced, well portioned, and regionally sourced — all highlights in their own manner.

Our memorable meal ended with an invitation downstairs to the kitchen for a quick chat with Head Chef Greg Austin (it’s funny how telling someone you live in Dubai opens up all sorts of conversations).  Although the service was clearly turning for dinner, and family meal was in full effect, out of nowhere, we were presented with mini cornettos full of chocolate and other goodies.  Where did they come from?  I have no idea.  Were they a perfect parting gift?  Yes, indeed.

How do you elevate corn? I don’t know, but The Ledbury seems to have it figured out. A nice, light course in the tasting menu.

A post shared by Courtney Brandt (@atozaatar) on Jul 26, 2018 at 9:30am PDT

Warm Bantam’s Egg — would love to see more eggs in a degustation. Great protein to work with!

A post shared by Courtney Brandt (@atozaatar) on Jul 23, 2018 at 5:13am PDT

Looking back on our recent holiday, The Ledbury stands apart as one of the best meals we shared.  Furthermore, what I had planned for three hours turned into an over four-hour experience, and I was almost late to meet with the editor of Citizen Femme!  (Fortunately, Sheena was very understanding).  Other than a louder/more involved soundtrack, I can’t think of anything I would improve upon and can understand the GBP260 per person price point (tasting menu with wine pairing).  The Ledbury is absolutely an occasion where the hype around a venue delivers.  The Michelin stars are very well deserved.

Would I go back?  Yes, without hesitation.

Who is The Ledbury best for?  Those looking for an intimate, casual, yet upscale experience.