Le Gothique

Le Gothique is a hidden French treasure ideal to impress a date or to organise a party. The food is honest and generous, the wines are fine and the service is young and sympatic. The venue is truly amazing and worth to be discover, believe me you won't regret it !
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Nikkie Amouyal
9 Overall rating
Food 9 | Service 8 | Atmosphere 10 | Value for money 8
Sunday, May 02, 2010

I visited the restaurant yesterday evening and after having a little difficulty finding the place (right round the back of the stunning Royal Victoria Patriotich Building), we parked up in their lovely cobbled courtyard and took the plunge.

The balcony eating area is actually very cozy and you should not be put off by the slightly sterile looking photo's on their website which only show the restaurant in full glaring light when it's empty.

The waiter / barman was very friendly and recommended a Californian wine to go with our meal. It was fruity, mellow and very easy to drink.

The food was great, I had french onion soup and venison in port sauce which I could only give the highest praise to. My friend ate rabbit terrine served with bread - he was slightly disappointed as this was served with sliced bread toasted - perhaps a more crusty bread would have been tastier. With a beautifully cooked T Bone Steak as a main course, and then dessert to follow, we left the place happy, stuffed and rosy cheeked.

The bill was to be expected for a three course meal for two with a bottle of wine and water

Initially the restaurant seems as though it should be a very 'proper' experience, but when you arrive at the cozy bar and see the soft leather bar stools and hear alternative music playing in the background and the vibrant chatter, the restaurant takes on an interesting character of its own. There are some amazing paintings around the restaurant which are worth a moment of your time, a couple oh which are painted by the same artist.

I will definitely go back again.
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Keira
10 Overall rating
Food 9 | Service 10 | Atmosphere 10 | Value for money 9
Sunday, February 07, 2010

Le Gothique could not be in a better setting. The beautiful gothic building is very inviting. The inside of the building does not dissapoint either with its big well crafted bar facing you as you enter the restaurant.

Unlike some other reviewers the service was very good and the staff vey kind. The food is good also with a wide selection of wine and ales.

Overall a must fo all to go to.
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Andy
10 Overall rating
Food 10 | Service 10 | Atmosphere 10 | Value for money 10
Wednesday, December 09, 2009

I have been going to Le Gothique for many years now and I have to say that I have only ever had a wonderful time, there.

The food is excellent and always consistent. I particularly enjoy their rustic French dishes, which are perfect for the winter, or even enjoying the garden eating experience in the Summer.

The staff have always been friendly and attentive, and I leave knowing that I have had a lovely time, some excellent food and wines (of which there is a great selection) and an extremely readable bill, with, often the odd complimentary drink having been thrown in!

Why are there not more places like this? No wonder it's been going for over 20 years!
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Simon
10 Overall rating
Food 10 | Service 9 | Atmosphere 9 | Value for money 10
Tuesday, August 18, 2009

On paper this place has a lot going for it, but in practice it just seems to miss the mark on a number of levels. The location is unique to say the least and this should ensure it's packed to the rafters most evenings, but on the basis of a recent visit, it looks like its potential is completely going to waste and that the owners are missing a trick.

General comments were:

- belligerent waitressing - remember, I am paying to eat in your restaurant and I will be telling friends and aquaintances what I thought. Therefore, greet me and my party warmly, do not grumble at me when you have made a mistake on the number of people the table has been booked for (after all, the restaurant is empty and you will be earning more, not less from us) and do not jump down my throat when I ask where the food is after 40 minutes nor when the order is incorrect.

- lack of advertised set menu - if there are conditions/restructions to the set menu or it has been removed, please kindly make that clear in advance

- lack of quality ingredients - the prices suggest that the ingredients are the best around, but to be honest they were disappointing. The food was fine generally, but not in relation to the prices. I did wonder whether some of the dishes were freshly prepared or whether they had come out of a packet. Presentation needs a bit more flair and a little less 1970's home counties.

In summary, it would appear that there is a somewhat lacklustre approach to the business by the owners/managers and subsequently general ambivalence to the success of the place which is a real shame. I may be wrong, but from an outsider looking in, it appears like these guys are quite happy to do just enough to cover their costs and make a living, when really, this should be a hidden treasure for locals, packed most nights for a good quality, bistro style dinner (not necessarily for a special treat), and a little goldmine for the owners. All it needs is a bit of elbow grease and an eye for detail. I think they owe it to the magnificent building if nothing else. So come on Le Gothique, we want you to be a success - sort yourselves out!!!
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3 Overall rating
Food 6 | Service 1 | Atmosphere 2 | Value for money 2
Thursday, June 18, 2009