Bob Bob Ricard seduces Soho with a flair for the dramatic. Open since 2008, the restaurant is co-owned by Leonid “Bob” Shutov and Richard Howarth, its offbeat name explained by the fact that Bob put up two-thirds of the original investment.
The result is a space where no expense is spared, no sparkle dulled. With a ‘press for champagne’ button at every table and interiors that gleam like a Fabergé egg, this is dining as theatre, and unapologetically so.
The Ambience
The dining room dazzles. Gilded latticework, sapphire upholstery and polished brass details evoke the glamour of the Orient Express, with booths reminiscent of vintage dining cars. Blushing rose hues tint the crockery; chandeliers cast a soft glow over the rich, lacquered space. Guests speak in low tones at the stunning mirrored bar, where the mood feels somewhere between a Gatsby party and a Russian salon. Each booth promises privacy—and the guarantee of a bottle, should the button be pressed.
The Food
Dinner begins with ceremony: a spoonful of caviar served on the back of the hand, followed by a bracing shot of vodka chilled to -17°C. It sets the tone—serious flavour, light-hearted presentation. We nibble on plump Gordal olives that deliver a surprising, spicy punch, perfect post-glasses of Pol Roger. Starters include scallop, lobster and shrimp pelmeni – meaty and sweet – gently floating in a fragrant lobster bisque. A tuna tartare tastes bright, balanced, and precisely seasoned.
For mains, the chicken Kiev is textbook perfection: a generous, golden breast, crisp outside, swimming in verdant garlic and parsley butter, which pools around the plate like a luxurious, herbaceous bath.
The Oscietra linguine is rich and refined, velvety with golden butter and finished with a light Bollinger velouté. The caviar threaded through each bite adds a delicate sea-kissed shimmer. On the side, truffled French fries arrive hot and well-seasoned, topped with a generous grating of fresh black truffle.
Puddings continue the theme. Whisky-laced chocolate truffles are dense and boozy; the sticky toffee pudding is a dark, glistening dome of nostalgia and indulgence. Service is faultless; attentive, warm, and just the right amount of theatrics.
The Verdict
Bob Bob Ricard leans into luxury and pulls it off with ease. It’s a place for long evenings, second bottles, and shameless celebration. The food is indulgent but precise; the setting, unashamedly opulent. f you’re after old-school glamour with polished plates, proper fizz, and a wine list that offers excellent value for money, Bob Bob Ricard more than delivers.
The Details
Bob Bob Ricard, 1 Upper James Street, London W1F 9DF
020 3145 1000 | www.bobbobricard.com