Indulge in a Fromage Fantasy
If you’re someone who believes that wine and cheese pairing makes everything better, then Tosi Gorgonzola Bar in London is about to become your new happy place.
Nestled discreetly in Mayfair, just a stone’s throw away from those swanky car showrooms, this little gem is a true hidden gem. It’s practically a playground for lovers of wine and aperitif dishes, especially those who adore the luxurious taste of Gorgonzola cheese.
For those embracing the art of Aperitivo, our carefully crafted selection extends beyond traditional boundaries. Sip on expertly paired wines as you indulge in a tempting array of artisanal cheeses, cured meats, and other delectable Italian treats.
Ambiance:
It was tiny, and I must confess, I found myself longing for a bit more breathing room. Not exactly the most comfortable setting for a leisurely chat, I’m afraid.
And the background music is a must to be mentioned. It was like they’d raided my 80s Spotify playlists. Wake Me Up from Wham! is my morning song, but it felt out of place in a wine bar, wouldn’t you agree? After a few glasses, I was hoping to positively buzz, but I was craving a simple orange juice to balance things out.
Service:
When it comes to restaurants owned by Italians, you can always expect top-notch service. There’s just something about their passion for what they do that shines through in every aspect of their hospitality.
Whether you’re a seasoned wine aficionado or a cheese enthusiast, or perhaps just dipping your toes into the world of fine aperitif experience, they’re more than delighted to take you under their wing and guide you through the menu with flair and finesse.
Drinks:
We’re talking about top-notch wines. And the best part? They don’t break the bank. I was quite taken with their wine glasses too. They added that extra touch of elegance to the whole experience.
Price: ££
The wines were a steal for the quality you’re getting, but when it came to the food, I must admit, I found myself raising an eyebrow at the prices. Paying a pretty penny for a tiny portion of appetizers just didn’t sit right with me.
What I Ordered:
Gorgonzola (as a complement)
That cheese? It practically was melting into a puddle of deliciousness on the spoon. I’m telling you, it was absolute top quality, through and through.
Burrata
As my fork effortlessly glided through the velvety exterior of the Apulian Burrata, I was met with a luscious, creamy interior that practically oozed decadence.
Blending the rich creaminess of Burrata with the lively tang of pickled vegetables and the subtle smokiness of extra virgin olive oil. it was a flavor explosion like no other.
*Battuta di Manzo
This indulgent creation had me weak at the knees: it was a marriage of the rich, velvety beef battuta with the creamy decadence of Parmesan mayo and the earthy allure of black truffle. The beef was so expertly seasoned and finely minced that it practically melted in my mouth, offering a tender and succulent experience.
But let’s talk about the real star of the show here: that black truffle. Its earthy aroma added a touch of luxury that lingered on the palate, leaving an unforgettable impression that I’m still dreaming about.
Selection of Cheese
Let me paint you a picture of pure cheesy heaven. This plate was like a journey through the heart of Italy’s cheese-making traditions, each cheese telling its own delicious story.
The Spicy Gorgonzola DOP, its intense blue veining and robust flavor gave me a bold adventure. The Piedmontese Toma stole the spotlight with its creamy texture and delicate nutty undertones, and then Taleggio, with its layers of complexity and buttery richness that had me swooning with delight.
But the real surprise? That chill jam! Who would’ve thought that something Jamie Oliver used for fried rice would pair so perfectly with cheese? It was an unexpected twist that had me considering a trip to Tesco to stock up on my own jar.
Selection of Salumi
Mortadella? Absolutely divine! But it wasn’t just that; every single salumi on that platter was top-notch quality. From the bold flavors of the Salame Felino to the delicate textures of the Beef Bresaola, each meat was like a little slice of Italian heaven.
For those who appreciate the finer things in life and adventurous foodies alike, this tasting experience is an absolute must. Right? You won’t want to miss out on this journey through the vibrant world of Italian charcuterie.
Cheese Cake
It was beautifully presented, but I couldn’t help feeling a tad disappointed by the portion size. And as for the sweetness? Well, let’s just say it left a little something to be desired.
The bold tang of the Gorgonzola DOP was just a bit too strong. It tipped the scales more towards a savory dish rather than a dessert, and that was a bit of a letdown.
Ricotta Lemon Cake
Let’s dish about the other dessert, shall we? It had all the makings of a delightful treat: a moist sponge and a burst of zesty lemon flavor. I’m all for a bit of tanginess, but this one? I’m not sure if everyone would be thrilled with that super lemony taste, It didn’t quite hit the mark for me.
Conclusion:
Tosi Gorgonzola Bar is a heaven for wine and cheese lover in all its glory. With its wine selection, impeccable service, and top-quality aperitivo dishes.
Whether you’re a die-hard wine and cheese fanatic or simply looking for a memorable but relatively casual aperitif experience in Mayfair, be sure to add Tosi Gorgonzola Bar to your must-visit list. Your date or friend will be impressed!
Menu is available: https://www.tosigorgonzola.com/assets/pdf/2024_menu.pdf
