Minestrone soup with parmesan croutons at the Winter Garden at the Landmark London

I’m often in charge of booking restaurants when I go out to dinner… or at least have an idea of where I’m going before arrival. However, for my birthday, I handed over responsibility of planning a celebratory meal to my sister. I was thoroughly surprised when it was revealed the Landmark London hotel was our destination, and within it the Winter Garden restaurant. I had seen photos of the Winter Garden setting – a stunning eight-storey atrium with tall palm trees stretching towards the glass roof. A grand piano was being played with groups of diners well spaced out throughout the dining area giving an intimate feel and fabulous ambiance.

Our table of five were shown to a table near the back of the dining room so we had a good view of the surrounding area. We were ordering off the set menu (three courses for £35) which came with a glass of champagne cocktail. The menu is predominantly British with Mediterranean and Middle Eastern influence. To begin, I decided on the Minestrone Soup with Parmesan Croutons. The flavours were stronger than I anticipated, but tasted lovely and mixed well with the smoothness of the cheese croutons. One of my party also allowed me to try the Tartar of Citrus Cured Salmon, served with Crème Fraiche, Avocado, Caviar and Anchovy Oil.

Tartar of Salmon

For my main, I ordered the Pan Seared Sea Bass with Fondant Potato, Tomato Chutney and Grilled Baby Courgettes. The dish was well presented and tasty. I particularly enjoyed the fondant potato, which was creamy, sweet and gorgeous.

To finish, there was only one dessert option for me – the Warm Chocolate Fondant with Vanilla Ice Cream. It was nice and sweet, but not too rich and I enjoyed it. Although we hadn’t told the staff it was my birthday, they had worked it out and decided to surprise me with a birthday muffin with a candle with the pianist stopping his playlist to play me ‘Happy Birthday’. I was somewhat embarrassed, but it was very thoughtful of them and a lovely unexpected gesture.

Overall, the food, service and ambiance was brilliant. The setting is quite unique for London so would be a great choice for a special occasion. I’ve heard the Afternoon Teas are good (well, award-winning actually!) so will have to make a repeat visit.

• Winter Garden @ The Landmark London, 222 Marylebone Road, Marylebone, NW1 6JQ. Nearest station: Marylebone. For more information and booking, visit the Winter Garden website.

Pan seared Seabass with Fondant Potato, Tomato Chutney and Grilled Baby Courgettes

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