Par Margaret Kemp
This chic new address is launched by the restaurateurs who launched le “hip n’happening” tables Amazonico, Cyril Lignac’s handsome Bar des Prés and Coya. Named in homage to Il Gattopardo, Guiseppe Tomasi di Lampedusa’s novel, which, as you know, inspired the epic award winning film (Cannes Film Festival Palme d’Or 1963) starring Alain Delon, Burt Lancaster and Claudia Cardinale, directed by Luchino Visconti.
The interesting menu is based around favourite Italian classic dishes, with modern spins, created by
Executive Chef Massimo Pasquarelli. Chef comes from the Abruzzo region, east of Rome, and began his culinary career in Monza (near Milano) before working with Group Alain Ducasse and more recently was Executive Chef at Singapore’s The Ritz Carlton.
“I’m delighted to be in London now”, says Pasquarelli. “My team and I are cooking authentic dishes with interpretations of the culinary delights I’ve discovered on my world travels”, he explains. When asked why the fabulous Truffle Pizza tastes so different he smiles in delight admitting, “we bring the flour from Italy!”
The décor is, as you would expect, impeccable and luxurious. Dion & Arles European Design duo blend classical with mid-century modernism, inspired by the style of Gio Ponti, Italian genius designer. A fabulous focal point is the open fireplace, then there’s a romantic hidden terrace with a glass sliding roof for good weather days. Below stairs is a private dining room, “we want guests to feel as if they’re in their own private apartment here”, says chef Pasquerelli. Gorgeous/Magnifico!
A small outside terrace where you can study the cocktail/mocktail menu, with delicious drinks for every hour of the day. “Aperitvo, Negronis, Dopo Cena (after dinner). “The signature is the 12-ingredient Gattopardo Negroni made with secret recipe Amaro herbal liqueur and sweet Sicilian Passito de Pantelleria wine”, says Pasquarelli. “But, if you prefer, you can have it without alcohol, it’s called “Not A Negroni,” laughs the chef. Also consider “Roman Holiday”, Amici Miei. 450 bottles feature on the wine list, showcasing Italian grape varieties with a large selection from Piedmont and Tuscany. And don’t ignore the beautifully balanced Sassicaia, Tinanello, Pieropan, Cantina Terlano and Aldo Conterno vintages.
Pasquarell’s signature dishes include Insalate (from £16) Crudo: Carpaccio Manzo (£20) Gamberi Sicilian Prawns, Taggiasca Olive oil (£28) Spigola wild seabass carpaccio (£20) Antipasti: Vitello Tonnato (£21) Cherrywood smoked Burrata, grilled courgette, pistachios and herbs (£18) Pizette: Margherita, Tartufo, Caviale with smoked salmon, sour cream, Oscietra caviar (from £12-£36) Pasta: Agnolotti, Vongole, Amatriciana, Ravioli, Agnolotti (from £18-26) “From the stove to the table”, Padella (£28-£48) Pesce: Branzino, Scampi, Sea Bream, Dover Sole (£42-£68) dotted with seasonal vegetables, wild mushrooms, ginger. Carne: Beef T-Bone for the table. Add Polenta, Spinach, Truffle fries, Green Beans, Parmesan mashed potatoes. Then Tomino Tartufo (£22) grilled cheese, shaved truffles, crispy Sicilian carasau flatbread (£22) 0r 36-month Parmigiano Riserva (£16). Desserts include “per la tavola” Tiramisu (£36) and Zuppa Inglese (£36). “These are sharing dishes for the table (up to four people)” explains chef Massimo. La Dolce Vita! Enjoy!
27, Albermarle Street, W1S 4HZ
T: +44 0203 839 5000
Underground Station : Green Park or Bond Street
https://gattopardo.restaurant
Octobre 2023
