You know how you have those places you mean to try out and just kind of never get around to trying? (Like, say, the gym . . . )
Velluto's been on my hit list for a while. Poor thing, it must have felt like the Sword of Damocles was hanging over its head, vaiting und vaiting for me to finally try it out. Well, try it out I did, and in style - for a shooper spesh Valentine's Day degustation menu. We rocked up for the early session at 7pm and the place is small but just beautiful, really understated and relaxed and classy, like. Black, dim lighting, Old Master-style paintings on the wall, splendid crepuscular light coming in from the El Alamein fountain area outside, and barmen and wait staff garbed in demure black and dapper to the last.
Upon arrival we were given glasses of Pommery Springtime Rose. The first plate was a jelly-topped pate served in a peel-back sardine can, with cornichons, fresh baguette and a deliciously smoky onion jam. The next was Lady Finger filo with minced duck, arancini and mushroom balls tinctured with truffle oil, and gravlax of cured ocean trout with a dark mustard seed sauce. Dessert was a cup of sensual peach-infused panacotta accompanied by rosewater-flavoured chocolates. Delightful all, and while they were small portions it was the perfect amount of food. Special shout-out (holler) to the staff, who were engaging and personal without being overbearing.
Really, really, REALLY wanna go back to try their martinis, as this is their signature drink and they pour it in the Rule of Three - three ounces pours, three garnishes, three sips. And the do my all-time fave, a Filthy Dirty martini. Brine me up! read more