If you were to ask me what was my most memorable dining experience ever then I would have to say that our lunch at The Ritz on saturday would be the one. This was an incredible afternoon from the moment we arrived to the moment we left. In fact this was the hospitality industry at its finest.

We arrived at the hotel to be greeted by the doormen who were not only very friendly but pointed us the way to the restaurant via the facilities so we could freshen up first. The staff inside were equally as friendly making the afternoon get of to a fantastic beginning.

Now it was time to dine. This started with a friendly welcome at reception before being escorted through the splendour of the dining room to our table in the corner. This gave us a stunning view of the entire restaurant. Once settled we were greeted by head waiter Kevin and Amy who looked after us superbly all afternoon along with Alessandro and the rest of the team.

As we enjoyed a glass of Charles Heidsieck we were given the history of our table that had included many a famous person sitting at our table including Baroness Margaret Thatcher.

Now it was time for the surprise Epicurean Tasting Menu to begin. This started with an amazing selection of snacks that included Smoked Sea Trout, Menton Lemon, Horseradish and Dill as well as the Tartare of Beef, Savora Mustard and Imperial Caviar. These were enjoyed with the Bread made with Guinness and butter.

Before moving to the first course we discussed with the sommelier about the wine to compliment the the menu and we opted for the 2019 Cerreto Barbera d’Alba that was soft , light and fruity.

Now to our first course which was a light and refreshing tomato delight. The Datterini Tomato with Basil and Parmesan was simply the perfect way to cleanse the palate after the snacks and bread. This was followed an incredible Ballotine of Duck Liver with Damson and Pistachio. Next to arrive was the stunning signature dish of Langoustine , A La Nage and Bronze Fennel that was simply sublime.

Our next course was a pasta sensation of Agnolotti , Parmesan and Truffle. Now it was time for the theatre of the main course. This was the Chestnut Fed Pigeon A la Presse. This was prepared by the team on three separate tables in front of us and the result was exquisite. The pigeon was accompanied by white asparagus and a sauce that was to die for.

Before moving on to dessert we decided to share a cheese course from the amazing selection of French and British Cheese described with great detail by Amy. The pre dessert of Grapefruit , Lemon Pepper and Yoghurt that followed cleansed our palate with delight. This led to chocolate heaven with the Ritz signature Chocolate , Hazelnut and Fudge that left you in dreamland.

It was now time to finish with mint tea and petit fours and if you thought the theatre had ended then no because before our eyes came the mint trolley. This was a selection of flavoured mint to which my wife chose the grapefruit and I the apple. All prepared beautifully by Alessandro.

This brought to an end a truly memorable afternoon where the hospitality of The Ritz Restaurant will make our experience one to remember for a very long time. I would absolutely recommend a visit as this restaurant is very special. The food created by Chef John Williams and his team was exceptional , the service from Kevin , Amy , Alessandro and the team was first class and to be seated in this sensational dining room is an honour.

What was also nice to see is that everyone is dressed up. The men in jackets and ties and the women in dresses. This is one thing that I feel is missing and a shame when you visit other Michelin Star restaurants especially when visiting a Michelin restaurant is supposed to be a special occasion.

I would now like to Thank John Williams and every single member of his team for an amazing afternoon and look forward to be back again soon.