Balthazar Covent Garden

A true New York institution, when Balthazar opened up shop in London I was ecstatic. Back in my New York days, getting a brunch reservation there normally took about three months, but on UK soil I’ve never had to wait that long.

I’d been for brunch at the Covent Garden branch pre-baby and was amazed to see how well they’d managed to recreate the famed New York brunch spot. On discovering that there was a free(!) lunch for Independence day, providing you dress in stars and stripes, Max and I hurriedly got dressed and headed into town.

This is a great restaurant for any occasion but the true test is whether or not you can survive a meal with your baby alone. The staff were so gracious and delighted to see Max, the service was impeccable, even more remarkable because I didn’t pay for my meal and as ever the food was excellent. Max and I had no trouble at all. This spacious, lively brasserie is a perfect brunch option with kids in tow.

What’s good? On this visit we had a special set menu for Independence Day and the hotdog with Toulouse sausage, barbecued beef cross ribs, comte and crispy shallots was a sweet, smokey marvel. On another day I’d not pass up their eggs benny.

Kid friendly? Completely.

✓baby change facilities

✓highchairs available

✓cool with breastfeeding

✓loads of other parents

✓ space for buggies

✓children’s menu

✗toys/play area

Rating ????

 

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