Mere

Contemporary French dining at Fitzrovia

Cornish Cod, Pan Roasted, Artichoke, Confit Fennel, Olives, Dulse Aioli Sauce

Mere, the fine dining restaurant by wife and husband team Monica Galetti and David Galetti, has been recently voted to be one of the top UK restaurants by the National Restaurant Awards. Monica was the sous chef at double Michelin starred Le Gavroche and one of the judges in the popular TV show Masterchef Professional. Mere is located in Fitzrovia, a place that is already packed with excellent high-end restaurants such as Kitchen Table and Pied a Terre. Mere positioned itself as a modern restaurant of mixing French cooking with South Pacific essences. It offers a short a la carte menu with less than 20 dishes to pick from, along with a 6-course tasting menu.

Canapes

Pea Custard, Ham Hock, Truffle Sable

Scallop, Lentils, Carrot & Pickled Celery Ragout, Guanciale

I opted for the tasting menu, the first course of pea custard was an excellent dish, I really enjoyed how the kitchen used a classic combination of ham and pea, and totally re-engined to a modern, refined level, with a slice of truffle to deliver a touch of luxury. The main of Herdwick lamb cannon was really enjoyable, the meat was well seasoned, the garnish of black garlic, courgette and basil were all very classic supporting acts for lamb, but just like the pea dish, it was refined, well put together and packed with so many beautiful tastes, and the crispy sweetbread offered a nice crunchy texture, with just the right hint of earthiness. The dessert was the weak link of the meal, the pineapple and tarragon was not memorable, and felt like it was just a few slices of fruits tossed together, it lacked refinements of any kind.

Herdwick Lamb Cannon & Sweetbread, Black Garlic, Courgette & Basil

Cheese, Young Comte Doughnuts

Pineapple & Tarragon Consommé, Mango, Avocado, Coconut Mousse

Apart from the desert, the meal overall was at a very accomplished level. I really enjoyed how the kitchen used some very classic ingredients combination and create dishes that are modern, refined and extremely flavorsome. I was also a fan of the decor and setting of Mere, it is contemporary, elegant but does not feel too formal at the same time. To sum it up, while it is not the cheapest place to eat, Mere does offer great cooking, colourful tastes, with a lovely service to match. If I really compare to other great Fitzrovia restaurants, I would rate it to be as good as Pied a Terre, and therefore I won't be too surprised if it lands a Michelin star soon.


Food 3.5/5


Average cost without drinks and services:
£70

74 Charlotte St, Bloomsbury, London W1T 4QH

https://mere-restaurant.com/

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