Review of Bagatelle Mayfair - A Taste of Côte d'Azur Luxury in London

Located in the heart of Mayfair, one of London’s most prestigious neighbourhoods, Bagatelle Mayfair offers a dining experience that blends refined Mediterranean cuisine with the vibrant spirit of the French Riviera. Known for its indulgent atmosphere and festive charm, Bagatelle isn’t just a restaurant—it’s a destination that captures the joie de vivre of the Côte d’Azur right here in London.

From the moment you step inside, Bagatelle feels effortlessly glamorous, with an ambiance that seamlessly transitions from upscale dining to a lively, celebratory space. The exceptional service is matched by a menu that showcases the best of Mediterranean flavours, accompanied by artfully mixed cocktails and an impressive wine list.

We began with an elegant selection of starters. The Salad Riviera was a vibrant, fresh dish featuring small spelt from Provence, sweet figs, goji berries, and fragrant fine herbs—a delightful combination of textures and flavours that set the tone for the meal.

Next came the Tartare de Thon « Bagatelle », a beautifully prepared tuna tartare with an espelette pepper vinaigrette that delivered a delicate balance of heat and citrusy brightness. The Daurade en Ceviche, seabream ceviche marinated with mandarin and lemon was a standout. Light, zesty, fresh, it perfectly captured the essence of Mediterranean simplicity.

For the mains, we opted for the Côtelette d'Agneau Grillée au Feu de Bois, grilled lamb chops served with a rich black garlic purée and roasted cashews. The lamb was tender and perfectly cooked, with the black garlic adding a bold, umami depth that was beautifully complemented by the crunch of the cashews. Equally impressive was the Bar de Ligne à l'Étuve, steamed sea bass paired with caramelised fennel and a delicate shellfish marinière. This dish was refined and elegant, with the sweetness of the fennel and the subtle richness of the shellfish creating a harmonious flavour profile.

To finish, dessert was nothing short of exquisite. The Tartelette Fondante au Matcha, a matcha soufflé paired with dark chocolate sorbet, offered a delightful contrast of earthy green tea notes and deep chocolate richness. For a taste of the French Riviera, the Tropézienne à la Vanille de Madagascar, a delicately light brioche cake filled with Madagascar vanilla cream, was a nostalgic nod to classic French patisserie—soft, airy, and indulgently creamy.

But what truly sets Bagatelle apart is its unique ability to transform an evening out into a full-fledged experience. As the night progresses, the venue comes alive with performers, DJs, and live music, turning the dining room into a stage and creating an electric, unforgettable atmosphere.

Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply looking to indulge in an evening of exquisite food, drinks, and entertainment, Bagatelle Mayfair is the ultimate French-inspired dining destination. Combining elegance, energy, and culinary excellence, it’s a little slice of the Riviera tucked away in London’s most exclusive district.

Address: 34 Dover St, London W1S 4NG


Website: https://bagatelle.com

Written by Stephanie Sowaha

Images 1 and 3 courtesy of Bagatelle

Image 2 by Stephanie Sowaha