All reader reviews by Crevette

The Palm

Not just American 'style' steaks and lobsters, these beauties are flown in every few days from New York and Maine. Both are tender as butter, succulent and meltingly perfect. The New York cheesecake is literally made to (Chef's) Mumma's own recipe, and the chocolate pudding smooth and rich, rich, rich.

Crossing into Europe for the first time, the only concession to Britishness on the Pont Street menu is a selection of locally sourced meats (required by law), featuring some of the best lamb the UK produces. A single quibble is the house practice of serving side orders of vegetables “family-style”, which means everyone at the table has to like the same veg.

There was one absentee last night: although on the menu, Jumbo Shrimp will only be made available when the ever-demanding owners locate a source of sufficient caliber. Given the care and flair with which everything else has been done, they should be worth waiting for.

Many ex-Drones staff have been re-employed by Palm and the owners are touchingly aware of the role their restaurant plays in local life. Judging by the reactions last night, the locals are pretty happy too. Palm is something quite new, a genuine taste of America in London. With it’s fixed menu, focus on service, quality, attention to detail and the sky-high standards the best American restaurants provide… Are we seeing the arrival of a London restaurant that guarantees a great dining experience? That would be a welcome addition to the capital.

Friday, May 29, 2009
Overall rating
Food 10 | Service 10 | Atmosphere 10 | Value for money 10