Let me set the scene. It is Tuesday lunchtime outside on the terrace of a chic, aqua marine café on Fulham Road. Two ladies are separately solo dining. They are indulging in the Petrossian Potato with Caviar and it is quite simply the chicest act of self-care I have ever witnessed.
The sheer lavish drama of the generous slick of caviar demands your attention as this dish arrives. The anticipation of what lies beneath eclipses everything else happening around you and the rollercoaster of flavours and sensations when you finally taste it leave no room for another thought.
Maybe this is the mindfulness eating I hear so much about.
The Petrossian brand have been purveyors of caviar since 1920. The original first shop in Paris is still delighting customers and the brand is now worldwide. Their latest café in South Kensington has the same iconic colour palette, stained glass, menu and delicatessen offering a range of luxury goods from smoked salmon to truffle shavers. When something is this good, why change it.
If you are new to caviar or “caviar curious” this is the perfect spot to stop by and be educated and advised by the passionate and knowledgeable staff. The original caviar that the brand started with in 1920 is still sold. The Ossertra is a strong yet well-balanced caviar that takes you on a journey from salty to earthy to nutty to seaweed.
We also sampled the Daurenki Royal Caviar which is a slightly larger egg with a tougher shell which creates a more playful texture as it rolls around the mouth. This is a more subtle, buttery creamy experience and my personal favourite.
The final mother of pearl spoonful that we took was the Sevruga Steluga. A finer texture created by much smaller eggs which is extremely creamy with an exquisite long finish.
The menu here is short and sweet with every dish not just showcasing but celebrating the caviar to the most. Even the dessert of the lightest chocolate mousse with caviar gave the perfect sweet and salty ending.
The Tarama with Black Truffle has to be tasted to be believed. This is Christmas morning in a mouthful. I will be purchasing a pot for everybody I know. The salmon tartare was also sensational.
I cannot fault the food, service or experience here. A trip alone to contemplate nothing other than the majesty of this food is indeed the ultimate act of self-care.
Review and Images by Emmie Blower @emmiebhungry
Feature Image supplied
