Perched on a charming island green in the heart of Pimlico, La Poule au Pot is a slice of rustic French romance transported to London. From the moment you arrive, the restaurant exudes quintessential French charm, with flower baskets spilling over window boxes, abient lighting, and an array of mismatched flatware that gives the space a characterful feel. It sets the scene for a cosy dinner for two or a long, animated meal with friends, promising a truly special experience.
The Ambience
The restaurant is packed even on a Wednesday night, which feels like a testament to its enduring appeal in the neighbourhood. Upon entering, a standout feature is the rustic bread station, an inviting focal point as you step inside. The sight (and scent) of freshly baked loaves, ready to be sliced and served with silky, golden butter, instantly sets the tone for the meal ahead. Inside the restaurant, the warm glow of countless candles makes every corner feel intimate and inviting, casting flickering light on wooden tables tucked close together. Conversations hum, wine flows, and time slows down as diners peruse the menu and tuck into plates of traditional French classics. The staff are fastidious yet unobtrusive, striking the perfect balance between polished professionalism and genuine warmth. You feel both well cared for and left to savour your evening at leisure.
The Food
We begin with that freshly baked bread, and it’s almost enough to stop there. The thick, crusty slices, paired with creamy salted butter, are utterly addictive. A velvety chicken pâté and garlicky escargots provide further excuses to indulge, with the buttery, herbed oil from the snails clamouring to be mopped up. To follow, the steak is a standout, cooked to a perfect medium-rare with a deep, smoky char that enhances its bold flavour. Triple-cooked beef dripping chips wear the crispiest of jackets, giving way to a fluffy, pillowy centre; we reach for them again and again.
The rabbit in mustard sauce is a seasonal triumph, the delicate meat enveloped in a creamy sauce, which pulses with a gentle warmth. It is balanced by the fresh crunch of green beans. But perhaps the most surprising highlight is the yellow peas with bacon, smoky, sweet, and irresistibly smooth, they add an unexpected layer of richness to the meal. Dessert doesn’t quite reach the same heights. The crème brûlée, though beautifully caramelised, arrives cold, which takes away from the contrast between the crisp topping and smooth custard beneath. A wonderfully versatile Beaujolais accompanies the food, complementing the meats and vegetables equally.
The Verdict
La Poule au Pot captures the essence of a true French bistro, offering outstanding food, impeccable service, and an atmosphere that feels neighbourly, yet celebratory. The menu also offers a reasonably priced two or three-course option that feels generous given the quality and portion sizes of the traditional French dishes. Paired with an impressive wine list and seamless, attentive service, La Poule au Pot is a place to unwind, to indulge in, and to return to time and time again. Perfect for autumn evenings, it deserves its reputation as one of London’s most romantic dining spots. It is the kind of place that lingers in your memory long after the last sip of wine. We can’t wait to return.
The Details
📍 La Poule au Pot, 231 Ebury St, London SW1W 8UT
12 pm to 9 pm