L'Escargot is a real treat and a Soho institution. As soon as you enter the restaurant, you know you are in a place that means business. It screams "gentleman's club" (in fact, there is a member's club upstairs) and has the solicitous service that you would expect from such a place. The food is classic stuff with a sniff of decadence - risotto made with truffle, grilled lobster, chateaubriand.... It goes without saying that you should try the escargot. I had never had snails before so it made sense that my first experience should be in a place that is named after them. They were so delicious, rich with garlic butter and parsley. It's not particularly cheap, but they do offer a very reasonable pre- theatre menu if you want the experience at a bargain price.
I really recommend this restaurant if you want a special evening or if you just want a bite before the theatre. The food is excellent, as is the wine list, so you won't be disappointed.
Since my first visit to L’Escargot, some months ago, my business partner has become a member of the club upstairs. So, we hold regular meetings there and I’ve been fortunate enough to eat in the restaurant a couple of times. For those curious about the food and level of service on an ongoing basis, I thought it worth posting a quick update.
I remember first visiting L’Escargot back in the Marco Pierre White days and it was stuffy, fussy and a little bit shit. It was then taken over by a lovely chap called Brian Clivaz (who’s also soon to open a new swanky members club in Devonshire Square) and a club prive was added above the ground floor restaurant.
An error has occurred! Please try again in a few minutes