Brasserie Blanc Winchester

As the supremo behind Michelin grandee Le Manoir aux Quat’ Saisons, Raymond Blanc talks a good game on his TV show, The Restaurant, but more to the point, he also delivers in the marketplace. His informal chain, Brasserie Blanc, brings gastronomic joy to a select few towns (the list continues to grow), courtesy of classical & regional French food that is ‘elegant & appropriate’ rather than earth-shattering. Smoked Lyburn cheese soufflé or ‘Maman Blanc’s miscellany of salads’ are highly original ways to get started, ahead of robust mains of steak-frites, rack of Cornish lamb with rösti or Cheddar cheese & onion tart. Dessert isn’t the usual mousse au chocolat; instead, try buttonholing a date or buddie into sharing a flamed baked Alaska. French wines direct from the producer & three menus for kids are further reasons to be impressed.

Brasserie Blanc is a chain of authentic-style French restaurants with four locations in London and another 10 based regionally throughout England, lead under the guidance of celebrity chef Raymond Blanc.

The Winchester branch is housed in a characterful, bistro style building with architectural features such a full height glass doors, wooden wall panelling and rustic tiling.

The menu is directed by seasonality, using produce that’s readily available in the UK, but with a French twist. The food on offer may differ slightly from location to location, but an example of the menu at Winchester is hot smoked salmon with a trio of beetroot, cauliflower florets and horseradish crème fraiche to start, roasted halibut with champagne sauce for mains and golden chocolate feuilletine for dessert.

On Sundays, the restaurant offers a special roast menu which comes with either beef, pork or meat-free option, seasonal vegetables, cauliflower cheese, bottomless roast potatoes and Yorkshire puddings.

Brasserie Blanc is passionate about wine and prides itself on working with big and small vineyards to provide a decent array of ‘vin’ options. There are five champagne options including some of the most well-known champagne houses in France including Laurent-Perrier and Dom Perignon.