Ochre: A Culinary Masterpiece at the National Gallery London
Written by Axel Ritenis, Editor and Publisher of Connoisseur Magazine
-Nestled within the hallowed halls of the National Gallery, Ochre stands as a testament to the harmonious marriage of art and gastronomy. This culinary gem offers a dining experience that is designed to be visually stunning.
-Connoisseur Magazine Publisher Axel Ritenis, (who recently popped up in London after escaping his duties at the Sydney Times) reports from the National Gallery,London !
Ochre is an all day dining bar and restaurant located in The National Gallery, on London’s iconic Trafalgar Square and Connoisseur Magazine Editor Axel Ritenis, a long time fan of the National Gallery and its Fine Dining options, popped in for a visit to experience the menu and the dining options ahead of the monumental Van Gogh Exhibition to begin soon.
Situated on the ground floor of the iconic William Wilkins building, this smart, comfortable bistro deluxe is revolutionising museum dining. A stunning cocktail bar and restaurant which blends international flavours with modern European cooking
All-day menus offer something for everyone, from brunch to dinner, via afternoon tea. Small and large plates have sharing in mind; flavours are vivid and international influences abound.
The restaurant’s ambiance is a seamless blend of contemporary elegance and artistic flair with floor-to-ceiling windows offer breathtaking views of Trafalgar Square, flooding the space with natural light and providing a dynamic backdrop for the culinary creations that await.
Ochre’s menu is a celebration of seasonal British produce, expertly crafted into dishes that are both visually stunning and bursting with flavor. Each plate is a work of art, showcasing the chef’s dedication to precision and innovation.
“The starters are a tantalizing prelude to the main event. For instance the beetroot and goat cheese salad is a vibrant medley of earthy flavors and creamy textures, while the seared scallops with cauliflower puree and crispy capers are a testament to the kitchen’s mastery of seafood.”
For the main course, guests can sample roasted lamb rump with rosemary jus and garlic mashed potatoes which is is a hearty and satisfying choice calling for a spicy red wine , while the pan-fried sea bass with lemon butter sauce and wilted spinach is a lighter yet equally delicious option.
No culinary masterpiece is complete without a sweet finale, and Ochre’s desserts do not disappoint. The offerings include Chocolate fondant with vanilla ice cream which is a decadent indulgence, whilst the lemon tart with raspberry sorbet is a refreshing and zesty treat. This correspondent indulged in his favourite dessert the Apple Tarte Tatin with caramelised Braeburn apples, cinnamon, vanilla ice cream,…talk about Delicious!
My Prix Fixe Experience
This correspondent visited on a sunny saturday for a late Lunch after a 2 hour session visiting the artworks in the Gallery,..and I supped on the PRIX FIXE Menu which includes a small glass of House Wine, Beer or Soft Drink -In my case I actually enjoyed a glass of the excellent English Methode Champenoise Sparkling wine Nytimber.
From the Prix Fixe Menu I selected the following :
-Cornish Mussels with Fries (GF) cider, leek and cream sauce
-Steak Tartare Hereford beef, egg yolk, sourdough toast 18.00 / as a main served with fries and salad 32.00
-Apple Tarte Tatin (V) caramelised Braeburn apples, cinnamon, vanilla ice cream
The restaurant also offers a delectable pre-theatre experience!
You can delight in the anticipation of your cultural evening with Ochre’s exclusive menu—Diners can choose one course for £18, two courses for £32, or indulge in a three-course feast for £38. Guests can elevate their evening with a symphony of flavours before immersing yourself in the Galleries arts.
This correspondent visited on a saturday and selected the PRIX FIXE Menu which includes a small glass of House Wine, Beer or Soft Drink -In my case I actually enjoyed a glass of the excellent English Methode Champenoise Classic Cuvee Nytimber.
From the Prix fixe Menu I selcted the following :
-Cornish Mussels with Fries (GF) cider, leek and cream sauce
-Steak Tartare Hereford beef, egg yolk, sourdough toast 18.00 / as a main served with fries and salad 32.00
-Apple Tarte Tatin (V) caramelised Braeburn apples, cinnamon, vanilla ice cream
Wines Consumed:
-Nyetimber Classic Cuvée West Chiltington, England NV
-Pasari Merlot Cramele Romania, 2022
A stunning cocktail bar and restaurant which blends international flavours with modern European cooking
The service at Ochre is impeccable, with attentive and knowledgeable staff who are passionate about both the food and the art that surrounds it. Whether you’re a seasoned art enthusiast or simply seeking a memorable dining experience, Ochre is a must-visit destination.
For starters, the beetroot and goat cheese salad is a vibrant medley of earthy flavors and creamy textures, while the seared scallops with cauliflower puree and crispy capers are a testament to the kitchen’s mastery of seafood. These dishes are perfectly complemented by a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a light Pinot Noir.
Moving on to the main course, the Roasted lamb rump with rosemary jus and garlic mashed potatoes is a hearty and satisfying choice, while the Pan-fried sea bass with lemon butter sauce and wilted spinach is a lighter yet equally delicious option. A full-bodied red wine, such as a Cabernet Sauvignon or a Merlot, would be the ideal pairing for the lamb, while a Chardonnay or a Pinot Grigio would complement the delicate flavors of the sea bass.
No culinary masterpiece is complete without a sweet finale, and Ochre’s desserts do not disappoint. The chocolate fondant with vanilla ice cream is a decadent indulgence, while the lemon tart with raspberry sorbet is a refreshing and zesty treat. A dessert wine, such as a Sauternes or a Moscato, would be the perfect accompaniment to these sweet delights.
I found the service at Ochre impeccable, with attentive and knowledgeable staff who are passionate about both the food and the art that surrounds it. Whether you’re a seasoned art enthusiast or simply seeking a memorable dining experience, Ochre is a must-visit destination and wont break the bank!
A destination in its own right, Ochre, is open for lunch through to dinner. You can also enjoy our daily seasonal afternoon tea and Champagne and Oysters Happy Hour.
The restaurant includes a stunning cocktail bar and lounge, and an intimate private dining room with views of Nelson’s Column.
Van Gogh Afternoon Tea
Our Ochre Afternoon Tea is a celebration of the iconic ‘Sunflowers’ painting by Vincent van Gogh. A feast for the eyes and the palate. Enjoy a selection of sandwiches, seasonal pastries and cakes, including a Sunflower Chocolate Pot, Yuzu and White Chocolate Sponge, Pistachio Tart, and choose from a selection of loose tea.
Elevate this sumptuous afternoon tea with a glass of Champagne, or our delicious Sunflowers Sour Cocktail – Turmeric infused Mezcal, apricot syrup, lime juice, pineapple juice and agave.
Afternoon Tea is a celebration of the iconic Sunflowers painting by Van Gogh, offering a feast for both the eyes and the palate.
Van Gogh Afternoon Tea is £55 per person and with a glass of Champagne or cocktail it is £65 per person.
MAKE A RESERVATION – Starts Monday 9th September.
Served daily, 3–4.30pm
Members receive a 10% discount per Member.
