Francatelli — Restaurant in London

Visited here for lunch using a gift voucher hoping for the same standards of service you would expect from a 1* Michelin restaurant. On arrival we were pointed to a table, offered water and then left for a good amount of time. Eventually our waiter arrived and asked to confirm the voucher details linked to our booking. Afterward he produced a little card with a set course menu for us to choose from. We made our selection and he asked if we wanted any wine, to which we said no but we were not offered any alternative such as soft drinks/juices etc. The first dish was a pre-starter gazpacho which was great. However, as I was still eating, my partners bowl was taken and she was also told "Let me take this as your starter is now ready". I carried on eating and had pieces of cutlery being laid around me for the upcoming course which was a bit uncomfortable. Despite this the starter was as enjoyable as the gazpacho, as was the main/dessert. But the pace of delivery was just all over the shop. I don't know if this was because we were deemed less important for being a voucher paying guest or if the service in general just isn't that good. Nevertheless, we wanted to add a tip (as this wasn't included on our bill) but this wasn't acknowledged sadly. As a whole, despite feeling the food was certainly enjoyable - the overall experience would be...

Francatelli, situated in the prestigious St. James's Hotel & Club in Mayfair, offers a dining experience steeped in history and elegance. The concept is inspired by the recipes of Charles Elmé Francatelli, Queen Victoria's former chef, presenting traditional British cuisine with a contemporary touch.

Under the skilled leadership of Michelin-starred chef William Drabble, Francatelli brings historical recipes to life using the finest seasonal ingredients. The menu reflects the chef's dedication to honoring British culinary traditions while delivering a refined, modern edge.

My evening at Francatelli was nothing short of remarkable. The dishes, rooted in tradition yet elevated with precision, were expertly prepared and bursting with flavor. The attentive service further enhanced the experience, creating an atmosphere of sophistication and care.

To top it all off, the excellent price-to-quality ratio made this indulgent evening an incredible value—a rare find in the heart of Mayfair.

Francatelli is a culinary treasure that celebrates Britain's rich gastronomic history with grace and flair. A must-visit for those who appreciate exceptional food and...

Top food. Top food value. Top service. If the review would be for food and service only, it would be 5 stars.

Unfortunately the restaurant has a Horrible value for most of the wine: Take 1 pay for 5. Upon arrival I pointed out 'I do not want to be ripped off on the wine' and that 'I would prefer spending £300 on a nice bottle instead of wine pairing.'

Sommelier assured that the wine pairing is a better deal and so I decided to go with it 🤦🏻‍♂️ The 'once in a lifetime' £300 wine pairing!

Unless you want a taste of an 1882 vintage port (photo), it is not worth it. Not including the port the retail value is £60. Better spend £300 on a legendary bottle from the wine list and skip the port unless you are a port Fanatic. Or why not get both a bottle of white and red 2 at £150 each. That way you also will avoid running out of wine during your meal...

Last I had such a horrendous wine pairing deal was at 'Geranium' which at the moment is named the best restaurant in the world. I paid £500 and got served wine for £100 💸

Restaurant serve only sweet deserts. No cheese 🪤

I will be back soon to enjoy the food and one of the top bottles from the...