Since I had been craving a decent Italian meal for a few weeks, Novikov, was the restaurant of choice, and it was certainly the best choice of dining options in a very long time.
Greeted at the door by the lovely door man, with a smile and a friendly exchange, set the tone of the evening straight away. Having dined at most of the top london restaurant establishments, a certain level of service is expected, and Novikov is second to non, filling me with excitement from the 'get go' for the evening ahead.
Once though the door you are yet again greeted by, not only more friendly, yet highly professional staff, but the amazing aromas of the fabulous and fresh food cooking throughout the venue.
Novikov is split into three sections, being, the Italian restaurant, the lounge bar and club, and the Asian restaurant. The decor in the lobby is spacious, with a sleek finish which compliments the venues character.
Once escorted to the Italian restaurants reception desk, my reservation was quickly found, and I was then shown to my table. One of the three waiting staff that would be serving me for the evening made a speedy approach to again greet me, and to enquire as to wether I would like a drink whilst I waited, to which I of course replied "espresso martini please".
The first impressions of the restaurants decor, is that it's light, airy, with a traditional charm. The fresh produce on my far left reminded me of walks I had been on through picturesque Italian food markets, adding further to the authentic yet opulent style of the venue. The background music was at an enjoyable volume of being able to hear it but without being intrusive. The lighting however at the start of the early evening was a little too bright, which was slowly dimmed down as the evening progressed, being far more agreeable.
The menu was vast, you are spoilt for choice with an array of starters, pasta dishes, mains and sides, which may I add, is never a bad thing. I would also like to state that the portion sizes are on the large size and perfect for sharing.
For starters, the Scottish Salmon tartar, with yogurt dressing, pomegranate and quail eggs. Alongside the Burrata with datterino tomatoes and olive oil. Both of these were wonderfully put together dishes tasting fresh and delicious, without being overpowering or heavy, together, making a lovely combination.
Next up, and notably one of my favourite dishes, not just from Novikov, but any where I have dined, the wood oven pizza with black truffle, fior di latte and soft cheeses. It was packed with truffle, the cheese was creamy and melt in the mouth, the base thin, and crispy and again everything tasting fresh. My love of a good take away pizza has now been ruined, thanks to Novikov's amazing creation and I have been craving it ever since my last visit. *sighs*
Mains were the Scottish Lamb cutlets with new season tomatoes and mint sauce, and the Beef fillet tagliata with rocket, parmesan and Worcester dressing. Both of which again were enhanced by the carefully selected ingredient's, creating amazing delicate flavours, cooked to absolute perfection and to the requested order. (medium rare for the beef, the way it should be, don't fight me on this)
Sides consisted of, mash potato, the rosemary roast potatoes and seasonal vegetables. The stand out side was the roast potatoes, which were perfectly seasoned.
To finish, I had the Mango and passion fruit Pannacotta, with fresh fruit, which again tasted delicious, creamy and sweet, and the fresh berries were ripe and moreish. Pannacotta has long been one of my favourite desserts and Novikov, again, surpassed itself. They also brought out a complimentary small plate of mini sweet treats, which was a lovely end to the meal.
Minor cons to the evening; the wine glasses were left on the table for a long time into the meal even though a bottle of champagne was being consumed, subtle hints were needed to have them removed, and the basket of bread was forgotten needing a gentle reminder to one of the waiting staff to have it delivered to the table. As previously stated though, these are very minor cons to an evening full of pros.
Final thoughts on Novikov; it's a very expensive experience, but that is reflected in their excellence and completely justified. My advice would be, save up for a special occasion and enjoy a few of the tasty meals that they have to offer.
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