So a few weeks ago I was in Bristol visiting some family, relaxing before the silly season descends on us. It was a short but sweet trip, but packed with fun, beer and of course good food.
As a treat my cousin surprised myself and my mum to a fabulous lunch at Brasserie Blanc. This is a chain of restaurants by French chef Raymond Blanc, with 20 locations throughout England, 7 of those in London alone.
The restaurant itself is situated in the shopping quarter known as Cabot Circus. The building is quite impressive, a renovated court house! Upon entering you’re immediately welcomed by a lovely friendly and relaxed atmosphere. But what’s striking is the amazing interior, especially the wall of wine that greets you.
We were brought to our table and with it being early we were all good and ordered soft drinks. After scanning and salivating over the extensive A LA Carte and set menus, we ordered food.
First up for me was cauliflower soup with grana padano cheese. This was so stunningly creamy. Seasoned to perfection I was just short of licking the bowl clean. My cousin went for the same.
Next to try was their baked french onion & gruyere tart. This was served with a delicious light and crispy green salad. I took my time with this as I savoured every mouthful. I just didn’t want it to end. It was utterly define.
My mums choice of dish was their wonderfully prepared rainbow beetroot salad. The colours alone were amazing. While my cousin chose thyme scented pork meatballs, pan fried in tomato sauce, served with saute potatoes. We were all in food heaven.
It really is true what they say, there’s always room for dessert. For my choice I went with pear conde. A beautifully chilled dish. Poached pears with rice pudding, drizzled in a cointreau sauce. This was the dish of the day for me.
I thoroughly enjoyed everything about our dining experience here. So much so that I’m only dying to revisit with Wayne next time. Perhaps when we’re next in Leeds.
Irish Beer Snob 