La Buvette which is part of Les Amis de Brula, a string of superb French restaurants in southwest London.

The Venue
Situated on Church Walk and in the heart of Richmond, this is a stunning location positioned on a little side street. St Mary of Magdelene Church provides a striking backdrop with a pleasant courtyard adding as an additional feature. The interior is warm and inviting. Contemporary furnishings and dark oak wood floorboards give you the impression of sitting in the middle of a bistro on the Parisian Left Bank.

Tasteful art is a lovely touch – be sure to check out the map entitled The Prospect of Richmond encompasses what Richmond looked like over 100 years ago. There is also a beautiful outdoor area that was once an annexe for the church and was formerly used as a canteen for the Parish.

The Atmosphere
On the whole an older crowd frequents this establishment, but there is a nice mix of people that add to the ambiance which remains quite civilized, even down to the conversation tone levels. This is a big hit with locals, diners are smartly dressed and it’s an ideal setting for a business or a lunch meeting.

The Food
La Buvette serves up a fantastic array of typical French food with the choice stretching to breakfast and very well priced prix fixe menu and pre- and post-theatre dinners. Dinner is where La Buvette comes into its element offering some tasty dishes. Starters include traditional snails from Burgundy in garlic butter, fleshy Dorset crab with fennel remoulade and chorizo dressing and a refreshing gazpacho Andaluz, a blend of onion, garlic, cucumber, and green pepper. The mixture of vegetables combines well and is an alternative to the usual tomato based gazpachos.

Mains include a gorgeous roast breast and confit leg of Barbary duck with peas a la francaise. The duck is soft, tender and melts like butter in the mouth. The fillet of Scottish beef comes with red wine and shallot jus and potato rosti. The beef is succulent and juicy and the red wine jus is a perfect combination with any red meat. Meanwhile the rosti delivers using fresh grated potato. Another suggestion would be to opt for the whole baked sea bass with basil and tapenade with the marinade providing a lovely piquancy to the dish.

Desserts include a small but filling petit pot au chocolat, a beautiful strawberry and creme patissiere tart using fresh strawberries. The filling is not too heavy and compliments the fruit. Another option would be to sample the unusual raspberry creme brulee which is soft, has a crunchy top layer and with a subtle flavour of the raspberries coming through at the end.

The Drink
Quintessentially Gallic, this reflects Les Amis de Brula’s passion for all things French with wines coming from various regions including Burgundy, Rhone Valley and the Alsace. There are as many as 30 choices with daily specials available by the glass and carafe.

The La Fonsalade Blanc is a Colombard Sauvignon blend with a fragrant hint of white peach and a fresh citrus flavour. Another classic is the medium Pouilly Fume with aromas of crisp green apple, grapefruit, blood oranges, white flowers and minerals. Also recommended is the authentic Kir Royal, a mixture of champagne, cassis and blackcurrant liqueur, to kick things off.

The Last Word
Technically superb food, discreet intimate surroundings La Buvette certainly has a little je ne sais quoi about it. This is one of the most authentic French dining experiences you will ever have and you’ll be returning again and again.

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