Palette to Palate
Imagine a place where the colors of contemporary elegance and rustic allure effortlessly come together, crafting an intimate culinary sanctuary in the heart of London – that’s Ochre.
Strolling into this enchanting find feels akin to stepping into an artist’s home dining area, where flavors and ambiance are skillfully chosen, promising a dining experience that’s not only refined but also as lively as National Gallery.
Ambience:
The gentle radiance of ambient lighting, coupled with thoughtfully selected art pieces, establishes an atmosphere reminiscent of my favorite art havens—trendy yet infused with just the right dose of comfort.
And oh, l cannot forget to tell you that their exquisite private dining space – a true masterpiece.
Service:
The service at Ochre was a bit of a mixed bag, not leaning towards greatness but not entirely disappointing either. I sensed there was room for them to offer more attention to our table though.
Drinks:
Although Ochre’s array of beverages is decent, featuring a selection of cocktails and wines, I couldn’t help but wish for a more extensive wine list, showcasing offerings from various countries.
Price: ££
The pricing at Ochre seems fair, especially when you consider the artistry behind each well-crafted meal. It’s an investment worth making for the culinary masterpiece on your plate.
What I Ordered:
Veganuary Set Menu
Delica Pumpkin Soup with 48 Hour Sourdough Bread
First, the portion size exceeded expectations! And the vibrant hues of the beautiful colors were like a masterpiece for my eyes.
Doesn’t it resemble a palette of paints? One might need a blank canvas just to illustrate how delectable the soup is. Their meticulous attention to detail reflects an artistic finesse, almost as though they were a culinary exhibit within a gallery.
It unquestionably stands out as one of the most exceptional soups I’ve savored in London.
While a touch more salt could have enhanced the flavor, the texture of this soup stole the spotlight. Impeccably smooth and velvety, each spoonful felt like a luxurious indulgence.
The interplay of pumpkin, King Oyster mushroom, and the addition of pumpkin seeds on top created a symphony of textures, striking a perfect balance. Ochre has truly elevated soup into an art form.
*Roast & Tempura Cauliflower
This dish was a testament to both culinary and visual artistry.
The flavor profile of this dish was a true explosion of taste, resonating on multiple levels. The tempura cauliflower, delicately seasoned and flawlessly fried, offered a delightful light and airy crunch. The roast cauliflower, with its caramelized edges, contributed a rich depth of nuttiness and sweetness.
The curry sauce skillfully brought everything together with a harmonious balance of aromatic spices. I couldn’t help but appreciate the delightful interplay of flavors, especially the pickled ginger, which added a burst of refreshing zing to each bite.
Pink Fir Potatoes and Bitter Leaf Salad
I’m a bit perplexed about their choice in presenting these dishes as part of the course. Unfortunately, these sides didn’t quite align with my expectations, causing a slight dip in my overall review.
Just to share, I only ate a single potato, leaving the rest untouched. How could I have added my own artistic touch to this beautiful masterpiece?
Conclusion:
In the grand gallery of London’s dining scene, Ochre is a canvas that demands attention.
It’s a place where flavors paint a vivid picture, and the ambiance is a brushstroke of contemporary charm. For those who seek an evening of culinary romance and aesthetic delight, Ochre is a masterpiece waiting to be savored.
I find myself a bit uncertain about the specific target audience they aim to captivate. While the decor exudes an air of sophistication, the service and food pricing appear more on the casual side.
However, there’s a charming paradox – it also seems to strike a chord as a discreetly good option for a first date, offering a romantic ambiance without breaking the bank.
You usually don’t need to book, but just in case: https://www.sevenrooms.com/reservations/ochre
