La Belle Epoque — Restaurant in London

Not a complainer but this “fine dining” restaurant should be closed. From the start… service awful, server recommended the beef tartar and it was cooked and almost burnt. When I asked why it was so well done he stated it was cooked a few hours ago. Pork was just as bad. Overcooked and strange taste. My daughter and I have been to many wonderful dining experiences and this was by far the worst. Check came and he added gratuity as optional. When I removed it he chased me and proceeded to start to make excuses for the bad service. I nicely let him know that our empty cocktail glasses sat on the table for the entire night and he had the nerve to blame my daughter stating “she told me to not touch it”… a complete lie. Longest review of my life and a waste of energy but please stay away from this restaurant if you are expecting a 5 star French dining experience. It was less than 1 star!...

First time in the Sofitel, and La Belle Epoque has turned out to be the most unexpected and fabulous bonus! Served by the courteous, efficient and knowledgeable Samerdeep, and introduced to an amazing mocktail by manager Sandeep, we were immediately assured we were going to have a great meal. A gorgeous Amuse Bouche, was followed by our incredible starters of chalk stream trout and the best duck liver parfait I have ever tasted. Our entrées were, Aubergine risotto, and roasted Duck breast and we relished every mouthful. Dessert would have been a wonderful finish, but we were too full!! To find this gem in an airport hotel was an absolute joy, and the perfect start to our holiday. Compliments to the chef, the management, the waiters and the bar tenders....

This restaurant had been booked for an business meeting and was convienent to the Sofitel. The tasting menu had been chosen for the meal. There are some people that will spout superlatives about this type of food, but in reality most people in the real world find it poncey and pretentious. Which is what quietly most people around the table were saying. In isolation some of the courses had nice taste and texture, but most were too small to make a judgement. Service was what would be expected at this price level restaurant and surroundings made for a comfortable environment. If by chance I went back, I certainly wouldn't have the taster menu. I'm sure Lots of people will say they love this place, but...