Sketch, The Lecture Room and Library

"I went for the tasting menu. The food was technically exceptional but I felt that there was a lack of cohesion, both within each dish and between courses. For example, raw scallops were paired with smoked fish and caviar, which completely outshone them, although the dish was delicious. The "grand dessert" was, in fact, no fewer than seven (!) mini desserts, each separately plated. The presentation and abundance was exciting but, again, there was little cohesion between the different dishes, and they missed a trick by having all seven as cold dishes. I felt that there was a bit too much going on in some of the dishes, which occasionally detracted from the fantastic produce. There were, however, some standout dishes. Roscoff onion and juniper agnolotti were served on finely diced confit sweetbreads, and the dish was rich and luxurious and utterly delicious without being overwhelming, even as an early course. The service was absolutely exceptional, to a degree that is unlike anything I have experienced elsewhere. Every person that we encountered was both incredibly professional and incredibly friendly. The staff appeared to love the over-the-top world of Sketch and understood that they were providing a whole experience, not just a meal. I asked, at the end of the meal, if the chef might sign a menu for me and was amazed that Daniel Stucki not only wrote something personalised but brought it up in person, to say hello. Overall, I consider this one of the best dining experiences in London but not the best gastronomic one."

"Return after five years…it’s even better! It’s almost impossible to put into words the totality of the experience. From entering this quite extraordinary venue, you are greeted with quiet superb professionalism. The building is fascinating in the way you are greeted with its stunning decor. Staff are extraordinarily attentive, at times it’s almost overwhelming, but it’s just the military level choreography of the whole operation. From the start of the experience of the huge variety of amuse bouche, through incredible taste experiences to the rightfully famous stunning six element dessert. I cannot find anything to criticise about this world famous venue with so many special memories. If there was ever a place to visit the toilets it’s here! Two of the most iconic and varied separate facilities I have ever seen! This gastronomic heaven is, unquestionably beyond my limited ability to adequately describe its multiple joys. Not the easiest place to book, as it’s so popular, but oh so worth it. We went into the kitchen to visit chef and his talented brigade, and wow, nowhere near the largest kitchen I have visited but the food coming out of it belies the restrictions of space."