Where
Odettes, Primrose Hill
What
One of London’s oldest dining rooms, Odettes is situated on the beautiful leafy Regent’s Park Road in Primrose Hill. The restaurant is owned by Chef Bryn Williams, who took over the property in 2008 after beating a number of established chefs on Great British Menu in 2006.
The experience
I don’t know how I have managed to evade Regent’s Park Road for so long. The beautiful tree lined street features a range of small independent businesses and period terraced houses. It is conveniently situated a short stroll from Chalk Farm and a stones throw from one of London’s most famous green spaces and favourite of the stars, Primrose Hill.
The lavish and comfortable dining room at Odettes is the perfect fine dining neighbourhood restaurant, with some diners having been visiting since the 70s. The recent refurbishment saw an addition of a private dining room and The Kitchen Table, where diners can watch the chefs at work under head chef Jamie Randall. I was at Odettes to sample The Kitchen Table menu.
Upon arrival we walked down the stairs, past the new bronze walled private dining room, which seats 10, and arrived at The Kitchen Table. I was surprised to see that the six seater table was literally right next to the kitchen and as I took my seat, I smiled as I looked straight straight over the pass and directly at the chefs working the kitchen for the evening.
Over the course of the evening we didn’t just eat the eight courses and snacks that were provided, we also had the opportunity to head into the kitchen, chat to the chefs and even cook and plate our fish course and dessert. What I really liked was that the chef responsible for each course presented us with our dishes and gave a brief explanation of what we would be eating; a real immersive dining experience.
The food itself was a delight. Highlights included marinated scallop with pear, mooli & Carmarthen ham and tender, pink lamb, which was served with courgette and anchovies tarte fine, artichoke and tomato. The Pastry Chef’s take on the Jaffa Cake was a showstopper and so rich that it almost caused a problem with leaving enough space for the freshly baked madeleines that were served with the teas and coffees.
Cost
The Kitchen Table costs £80 per person (£125 with matching wines)
Address
Odette’s
130 Regents Park Road
Primrose Hill
London
NW1 8XL
Tel: 020 7568 8569
