Private dining doesn’t always spring to mind when we think of pubs. But then again, Ganymede has always done things differently. Named after the largest moon of Jupiter and tucked away in Belgravia, the pub is the brainchild of Hubert Beatson-Hird and Oliver Marlowe. The interiors, meanwhile, are modern and stylish but simultaneously retain a cosy feel. Think British racing green banquettes, art deco fixtures and plenty of natural light. A private meal here is the perfect way to enjoy the top-tier food in a more intimate setting.
You and your guests can start off with a glass of something bubbly, perhaps even a Tattinger Blanc de Blanc for a truly special occasion. Alternatively, there is some very enticing Prosecco and English sparkling at the more affordable end of the scale. Aperitifs are on hand too, including a fan-favourite blood orange margarita or a Flor de Cana dark and stormy.
If you and your guests like oysters, be sure to start with a half dozen, served with the classic lemon and mignonette. After that, you’ll enjoy seasonal starters that show Marlowe’s endless creativity. Courgette flowers here might swap the traditional ricotta filling for crab, with a sauce vierge and aubergine pickle for contrast. Elsewhere, you might see suckling pork belly and Stornoway black pudding accompanied by roasted figs and bitter leaves, or sea bream sashimi with mojo, fresh jalapeno, spring peas and yuzu.
The main event, however, is sure to impress your guests. For fish enthusiasts, the turbot is a must, paired with seaweed gnocchi, baby leeks, pickled cucumber and a chive and caviar beurre blanc. For something meatier, there’s a saddle of lamb with miso glazed lamb belly, pomme gratin, turnip lyonnaise and asparagus. Vegetarians, meanwhile, will likely enjoy a hearty pasta dish featuring mushroom and truffle ragu, enriched further by Belpa Knolle. Finish with the likes of a hazelnut, polenta and olive cake, or perhaps a white chocolate creme brulee with blueberry compote.