Farewell to Koffmann’s at The Berkeley

Closing at the end of the year, Pete and I were determined to make a last visit to Koffmann’s at The Berkeley. The restaurant is run by the hugely talented and celebrated Pierre Koffmann and we love the way he cooks.

Amuse bouche of little soldiers of pissaladière – that lovely salty anchovy savouriness with sweet onions…

The bread basket is fresh and varied with sourdough, crusty white and brown rolls. My favourite was the laminated, rosemary-infused, enriched-dough pastry that was soft, crisp, flaky and rich.

Terrine of foie gras with brioche – rich, fully flavoured and perfect in texture.

Herbed half a Scottish lobster – lots of sweet, perfectly cooked lobster meat in a herby butter with a creamy Béarnaise on the side.

Roasted duck breast in a spiced sauce – perfectly cooked and beautifully enhanced by the lovely sauce. Brussel sproutes, salsify and deep-fried kale alongside.

Tournedos Rossini – a large, perfectly cooked fillet of beef with foie gras, thickly sliced black truffles, sweet caramelised shallots and spinach in a rich and glossy sauce.

One of Pierre’s signature dishes, the pistachio soufflé with pistachio ice cream. It looks large when served but is so light and aerated that it’s not a heave dessert.

Caramel dome filled with a lightly textured but richly flavoured caramel mousse and chocolate crumble base.

If you can still get a table, Koffmann’s is well worth a visit before it closes its doors in a few days time.

Wishing Pierre and Claire Koffmann all the best for whatever is coming next.