This is the place to find a little bit of France in the capital

I WAS invited by Claudio, a dashing widower, to an intimate lunch for three at Racine. Of course we had the best table as he is one of their regulars.
On the day I visited, unbeknown to me Racine had been nominated, for TV’s restaurant awards taking place that evening. They won in the French category.
Racine is a very popular place, demurely decorated, it is certainly the place to meet for lunch.
The a la carte menu is extensive with Hors D’Oeuvres ranging from £6.50 to £12.50. Main courses are from £12.50 to £21.
Puddings from are £4.50 to £6.95. But what is very good value is their Prix Fixe Menu at £15.50 for two courses. And most importantly the quality is superb.
Highly recommended: Deep Fried Artichokes and Aioli £7.25.
The artichokes are out of this world. I wish I could be dipping them in the aioli now whilst writing about them.
The Soupe de Poisson, Rouille, Gruyere et Croutons at £6.50 is the real thing. The Roast Fillet of Sea Bass, Smoked Aubergine Puree and herbs at £18 was very good and the duck would have been excellent had it not arrived very pink even when I asked for it to be well done – which of course usually annoys the Chef. However, I feel the kitchen should accommodate the customer and we the paying customer must always insist on this.
A Chateau Terrefort 02 at £13.75 was a good choice whilst the Double Expresso (£2.50) could keep you awake until early hours of the morning.
The total bill for three came to £141.52 and included an interesting discretionary service charge: Not 12.5 per cent or 15 per cent – but 14.5 per cent. Why?

RACINE
239 Brompton Road
Knightsbridge
London SW3 2EP
Call 020 7584 4477
Open: Lunch: Mon-Fri Noon-3pm
Sat-Sun
Noon-3.30pm
Dinner:
Mon-Fri
6-10.30 pm
Sun 6-10 pm