Something of a hidden gem, this “charming slice of France”, popped up in Farringdon, delivers perfectly for Francophiles in this neck of the woods. La Petite Ferme combines cosy Bistro with garrulous wine bar,?showcasing comforting bistro-style dishes indigenous to Lyon, the Alpes and Savoie as well as a wealth of artisanal ingredients, as in assiette de charcuterie or de fromage.
But, regardless of how much you enjoy the food, it is wine that is perhaps the real hero of the show, be it in sustainable, organic or biodynamic versions, or in regular wine tastings, throughout the year. The latter may mean classic Bordeaux or Rioja or, for something a little more left field, Orange wine. A beautifully annotated French wine list covers all the regions as well as price points, and is a thing of beauty and of soul.
If you’re pushing the boat out, you might opt for escargots de Bourgogne, terrine de crabe or bresaola, followed by moules marinieres or tartare de boeuf. Sides of mushrooms, broccolini with orange butter and Parisian fries also hit the spot. This is flexible dining and some may just want to share a bottle of wine with, perhaps, a brie à la truffe and a green salad, but gourmands will rightly insist on profiteroles or strawberry and pistachio tart to finish.? Watch out for the all-you-can-eat raclette, with wonderful jambon de Savoie, potatoes and cornichons, washed down of course with Chartreuse or Génépi.
The scruffy chic setting and raffish ambience hits the spot with locals, oenophiles and hipsters alike.