Island Restaurant, Lancaster Gate, London

Island Restaurant, Lancaster Gate, London

Whilst the menu can be described as strictly Modern European cuisine of the finest, freshest variety, it nevertheless boasts a strong British dish contingent, alongside the stalwart Italian and Mediterranean offerings, satisfying even the most pedantic of patriots. Those of a more health-conscious leaning might dream of reclining under a shady palm having selected one of the extensive range of fresh-fruit cocktails from the bijou bar. Unlike the restaurant's truly European focus, the bar stays true to the tropical traditions of an Island image yet combining a pleasing fusion of the old and the new in its cocktail and wine lists, with nearly 30 different varieties of the latter to choose from.

The red-blooded carnivores amongst us will salivate at the prospect of a chicken liver and foie gras paté for starters, accompanied by succulent West Country Casterbridge beef, crowned with béarnaise sauce, parsley and delicious, caramelised shallots for the main course; seafood lovers should look no further than the steamed Cornish mussels for starters, with its refreshing coating of coconut, chili, lime and coriander, before bracing the palate for a tasty main course of steamed fillet of bream. Lacto-ovo vegetarians are also amply catered for with a buffalo tomato and mozzarella salad for starters and continuing the feast with baby spinach and parmesan-infused linguine. Being the more stricter variety of vegetarian myself, I could choose the restaurant's signature risotto, resplendent against a forest of wild garlic, chives, tomato and lemon, together with a strong selection of side orders, from crisp and colourful salads to fine fresh greens (wilted spinach being my particular favourite), the restaurant ensured I was never going to go hungry.

If room for dessert prevails, then chocolate lovers will vie for the chocolate fondant with hazelnut parfait and frosted pistachio nuts, and those who want an added sparkle can plum for the Champagne jelly with a smattering of berries in various sweet forms. Staying true to the Island roots (a tropical destination in my mind at least!), I selected the perfectly presented tropical fruit salad in all its plump and juicy glory and cheekily combined it with some of the delicious fruit sorbets that were on offer.

But by far the biggest treat when dining out at Island, aside from a guarantee of good food, is the enviable opportunity to watch Jean-Claude Vydelingum, the rising star on the London chef circuit in culinary action in the open-plan kitchen. Moreover, Jean-Claude is ardently committed to using fresh and locally-grown produce, hence the frequent seasonal changes to the menu, and is passionate about ensuring the restaurant sources its goods from highly respected suppliers. An evening dining out at Island is definitely a trip worth making!

Island Restaurant & Bar, Lancaster Terrace,
London W2 2TY
Reservations on 020 7551 6070 or visit www.islandrestaurant.co.uk

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