Most Melburnians have a thing for coffee and breakfasts and I am no exception. I am on a constant quest for smashed avo(cado) and caffeine options in London town. Luckily Balthazar exists for a consistently delicious experience. Yay!
Balthazar London is an offshoot of the New York icon and offers french bistro fare (and smashed avo!) all day, seven days a week. I dropped in for brunch with a friend yesterday and we had a typically relaxed experience. The restaurant is run properly – considered service (a little bit of banter but not too much) and well executed dishes. The atmosphere is smart but not stuffy – red leather banquettes, mosaic floor and brass fittings.
Balthazar is not a haven for hipsters, nor is it somewhere to go if you’re looking for cutting edge cooking. This is classic bistro fare done very well in a relaxed environment with reasonable prices – for central London. We easily settled into our banquette, cappuccinos in hand, for a long leisurely brunch.
Of course I ordered avocado on toast. The toast is sourdough, naturally, and is a tangy and chewy thick cut version baked at the in-house boulangerie. Just the way it should be. Importantly the smashed avo(cado) is chunky and tangy with lime – do take note rest of London. The dish is topped with two poached eggs done properly (no vinegary taste) and a supremely tasty garnish of finely diced tomato. I was most contented.
Balthazar is conveniently located in Covent Garden. Bookings advised – unless mid week brunching.
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The creator, writer and photographer behind Untold Morsels, Katy has been travelling and tasting the world since she was a teenager.
Now the proud mum of twins, she hopes they grow up to share her passions of great food, wine and travel. Favourite destination: Italy