A hidden gem in the heart of the trendy St James, "Avenue" oozes sexiness, glamour and trendiness with its Manhattan inspired interiors and artwork. With a warm, friendly welcome, impeccable service and fashionable cocktails I knew that tonight we were going to be in for a treat.Tonight we get to sample It's latest addition in the form of new head chef Dominic South. His seasonal tasting menu on paper looks like it shouldn't work but strangely it does!His exceptional marriage of seasonal produce, delicate balancing of flavour and eye for detail makes this evenings 7 course tasting menu a gastronomic success, drawning on his experience at restaurants such as the Hibiscus, Dorchester grill and international stints in Antigua and HongKong. It's clear that he has a passion for his craft, a refined palate and Michelin star aspirations.From the non descript green bean, lemon grass and almond, I was not sure what to expect. To my relief and delight a green bean palate cleaners flavoured with lemon grass and a toasted almond foam perfectly paired with a glass of Louis Roederer Quartet £9,50. It's notes of Apple, vanilla and it's biscuity mousse cut through the strong scent of lemon grass and allows you to fully appreciate the flavour of the medley of green beans and the almond foam.Tuna tartare will never be the same again, This delightful dish or should i say work of art left me mesmerised. The gentle chillie emulsion which accompanies this dish pushes it to another level, every mouthful an explosion of flavour, accompanied by a very respectable glass of 2012 Albariñofrom the Marimar estate £12,50 a heavenly, silky smooth wine with hints of pineapple, Sicilian lemons and a floral nose of Jasmine.Next to arrive was a beautifully seared and seasoned Orkney scallop which had been lightly poached in delicate smoked ham and lime Consommé and served on bulgar wheat. This time paired with a glass of the French 2014 Domaine Saint Paul Colline, Picpoul de Pinet £7,50 , with it's citrus heart and hints of Mellon makes it a great accompaniment to this dish.
Dominic clearly understands seafood as every dish including the eagerly anticipated Sea bream, was treated with respect, subtle flavour combinations that enhance without overpowering.He delivered a well balanced, perfectly cooked fillet of Sea bream. The addition of Ceps, Trompette de la mortand , Gnocchi and chervil root sauce with lovage oil lifted it to a whole new level. Who knew wild mushrooms and fish worked so well together!
Perfectly plated and paired with an £18,00 glass of Domaine Lamy, “Les Frionnes” Saint-Aubin 1er Cru 2010 worth every penny and it goes down a treat.The first of our meat dishes tonight a slow cooked lamb shoulder with coco beans, smoked garlic and squid ink. The beautiful flavour of the lamb slightly overpowered by a very rich smoked garlic and squid ink sauce. The wine choice a delicate red Jackhammer, a 2013 Pinot Noir from Central Coast,California, USA which was a delight and berrylicious @ £12,00Next up a simply plated but explosive feast of flavour. Mango sorbet,fresh mango, vanilla and citrus cheese cake. Orgasmic and perfectly mirrored in the delightful glass of Ken Foresters "Noble late harvest 2010 Chenin blanc from South Africa £6,00The evening comes to an end with a delightful trio of petit fours, which contained a rather interesting beetroot chocolate truffle.An exceptional evening was had, our host and restaurant General manager Jack Cohn clearly understands the value of great customer service. Attentive service, great ambience knowledgable staff who clearly take a leaf out of his book, I was impressed by his knowledge of wine and delighted by the pairings he had assembled.This place gets a respectable and well deserved 4 stars, and from this Autumn you will get to sample lots of great food, drink pairings and the opportunity to try the premium pairings.Get booking as this beautiful Manhattan style venue with its elegant bar is very popular with international guest, local hedge fund managers and foodies alike.
Tasting menu from £45
