Gaucho is a brand we have become very familiar with over the years, not only for its impressive steak offerings, but its service, its decor the overall experience that each of their restaurants manages to provide effortlessly; Piccadilly is no exception. Occupying the former home of a Spanish Ambassador, Gaucho Piccadilly is a sumptuous hidden gem amid the hustle and bustle of the West End. Its recent refurbishment has stripped away the low level lighting and cowhide walls and seats and introduced a more refined, classic interior with some intriguing elements to hold on to its heritage.
The cowhide for me has always represented Gaucho, so I was a little sad to see this no longer. In tongue-in-cheek protest we decided to dine outside. In reality, this was less down to protest and more due to the hot weather, which is actually a first for Gaucho. Usually this wouldn’t be possible, so we jumped at the chance, although in true British style it was absolutely throwing it down. We were safe, however, thanks to Gaucho’s huge cabanas. We had a comfortable table and didn’t feel a drop of rain. Thankfully our waiter was not effected either and made sure we were left wanting for nothing.
We decided to begin our experience with an aperitif. I decided upon a Last Kiss cocktail, which comprised of Fords Gin, Chartreuse, St.Germain liqueur, sweetened citrus and egg white with a mint and sugar rim. This cocktail was aromatic and punchy and absolutely delicious. My partner chose a Silly Rabbit cocktail, which saw Hendrick’s gin, Merlet pear liqueur, lemon juice and sugar shaken with basil leaves and egg whites. This cocktail was a particular highlight, being strong, yet fruity and light.
“Once again Gaucho failed to disappoint and gave us a wonderful, memorable experience in the heart of London’s West End.”
To being our meal, I opted for the 48-house dry-aged pan-fried provoleta complete with ají molido, oregano, honey, spring onion and basil cress and served with toasted sourdough. The cheese was simply divine and the accompaniments really brought out its true flavour. My partner opted for the soft shell crab causita which was served with red onion, coriander, smoked paprika mayonnaise and egg vinaigrette. The crab was so fresh and delicious; it truly was a mouth-watering dish.
For our main courses, of course we had to sample their steak. My partner chose the 300g lomo fillet steak, to which we added four grilled argentine red prawns with churrasco dressing, and I ordered the 300g cuadril rump steak with truffle and black pepper butter. I cannot emphasise enough how wonderful these steaks were. Not only were they perfectly cooked to our personal preference, but the meat simply melted in the mouth as we enjoyed each mouthful. As side dishes, we opted for spinach with garlic and lemon, thin chips finished with chimichurri and a rocket and kale salad with parmesan and pumpkin seeds.
To accompany our meal, we chose a bottle of 2015 ‘Esperando a los Barbaros’, Matias Michelini Malbec, Uco Valley, Mendoza. This wine was simply delicious being highly aromatic and perfectly smooth.
Once again Gaucho failed to disappoint and gave us a wonderful, memorable experience in the heart of London’s West End.
The Bill: £67 per head
