Brasserie Blanc Portsmouth — Restaurant in Portsmouth

Another visit to BB gunwharf, excellent food drink and service as always, a little noisy due to Christmas parties but it didn't spoil our lovely lunch a couple minor points so four stars remain....... Visited for lunch. First time at the Gunwharf branch. We had a warm, friendly welcome and were seated suitably even though we arrived early. I had a twisted citrus spritz which was boozy and had a lovely orange flavour. The cheese soufflé to start was delicious. Light fluffy and cheesy on the inside crisp on the outside. Our daughter enjoyed her mini mezze. Steaks for main were tasty I loved the herb butter. Steak knifes didn't come out with the food but this was spotted by an attendant and he swiftly brought some over however the meat was so soft and tender it was not too much effort using the dinner knife. The French fries were perfect. So perfect in fact our daughter decided to eat her father's fries instead of her pasta main. Her pasta dish was lovely though all elements came separately which is brilliant for a childs meal. Unfortunately no sprinkles for her ice cream however the chocolate sauce alternative was well received. I had winter Pavlova for desert. The flavours were authentic of winter and I loved the rum cream. The meringue though tasted bought in and artificial this let the pud down immensely. The wine and drinks were good a nice selection. I would have liked more service in-between courses clearing glasses offering more drinks etc. But all in all a very successful pleasant lunch. We will definitely visit again as so many lovely looking things on the menu. We were made to feel so relaxed and comfortable dining with our 3 year old which is often so challenging....

9 Months ago I left a glowing review but today I feel more than a bit disappointed. The staff were friendly and service good but not sure if I just chose poorly from the menu, but I didn't really enjoy the meal. Firstly think again before ordering the Tartiflette starter, this looks nothing like the picture on the website or Raymond Blanc's own recipe - my dish was basically one small potato cut up into 4 chunks swimming in garlic butter, flashed under a grill, with the tiniest amount of melted cheese and lardons and two tiny slithers of cold bread. I felt cheated, how can you justify charging nearly £7. I know what tartiflette is supposed to look and taste like, this was nothing like it, no raclette/reblochon and no crusty baguette as promised. I actually asked the server whether the tartiflette was always like this and she said yes but didn't enquire if I enjoyed it or had any issue. I really regret not choosing the souffle or another starter. My main course sticky beef was a little dry and I couldn't taste any coconut in the rice or butter in the kale. Finally pear pain perdu for dessert, it wasn't until I just looked on the website that again my portion was much smaller and no ice cream even arrived on my plate. Maybe I was just unlucky but it's a real shame when I know this restaurant can do better and have given it 5 starts in the past. I feel ripped off...

Brasserie Blanc Portsmouth offers a refined yet relaxed dining experience with a touch of French elegance. The setting is stylish without feeling formal, with soft lighting, comfortable seating and a view over the water that adds to the charm. The menu features a balance of French classics and seasonal British influences, which makes it appealing for a wide range of tastes. I started with the French onion soup which was rich, deeply flavoured and topped with a cheesy crouton that was perfectly toasted. For the main, the beef bourguignon was a standout with tender slow cooked beef in a wine based sauce, served with smooth mash and fresh vegetables. My companion enjoyed the pan seared sea bass with samphire and beurre blanc, a dish that was fresh, light and beautifully presented. Dessert was a classic crème brûlée with a crisp caramel top that cracked perfectly to reveal a smooth vanilla custard. Service was attentive and friendly, with the team happy to recommend wine pairings that complemented our dishes perfectly. Prices reflect the quality and portion sizes and it feels like excellent value for a special night out. Brasserie Blanc is the kind of place where you can enjoy a leisurely meal, savour every bite and leave already planning...