Are you familiar with the moral dilemma of discovering a fantastic new restaurant that’s so good you want to tell everyone, yet also you’re desperate to keep it to yourself lest you never be able to book a table again? That’s how we felt about Ganymede. Luckily for you, we’re in the spirit of sharing given it’s Christmas and all…
On a very twinkly Belgravia corner (they do do Christmas well around there, don’t they?) Ganymede - named after the biggest moon in the solar system - is the new opening from the team behind The Hunter’s Moon in Chelsea. With the aim of serving fine dining food in a relaxed environment, they’ve certainly delivered.
The dining room is beautiful, all wood panelling, low lighting, mirrors and banquettes, it’s the kind of space that instantly puts you at ease and lets you know you’re about to enjoy your meal. The staff were wonderful, friendly and knowledgeable without being overbearing, they make it feel even more like a cosy neighbourhood dinner joint you’ll want to drop in to time and time again.
So, to the food. The short story is that it’s all sublime. The longer one… read on.
The crown prince pumpkin soup with walnut pesto, crumpet, cream cheese and harissa was heralded ‘the best soup I’ve ever had’ by my friend; hearty, warming, delicately spiced and perfectly complemented by all its accoutrements. I began with an indulgent sounding yet surprisingly delicate guinea fowl and truffle lasagne, button mushroom purée, lyonnaise onions and parsley root, my only disappointment being that I wished for it in a portion the size of my head, so delicious it was.
Mains included a rich roast duck breast (pictured) with trompette purée, perfectly crispy pomme fondant, persillade and Jerusalem artichoke. My braised veal cheek disintegrated on first touch and completely melted in the mouth; unbelievably tender, every mouthful was savoured. With creamed potatoes, chestnuts, pied mouton, Brussels tips and Madeira jus, it was undoubtedly one of the best dishes I’ve had all year.
We finished with an indulgent apple and hazelnut tart dine with praline parfait (yes, as excellent as it sounds) and a refreshing spiced pineapple carpaccio with kaffir lime and coconut. Delightful.
So there we have it. One of my favourite meals of the year (and there have been plenty….) and probably my new favourite restaurant. I can’t wait to discover its seasonal menu changes and what wonderful dishes it concocts next; roll on the spring.
Side note, Ganymede has also launched a three-course set Christmas feast with a host of indulgent dishes, available at lunchtimes throughout December priced £30 for two courses or £35 for three. And if you're stuck for NYE plans, they're hosting a four or five course tasting menu, complete with a glass of Charles Heidsieck champagne, priced at £62/£75 respectively.
