This Spring, two London establishments – Galvin at Windows and Borough Market’s Turnips have joined forces to serve
a six-course, sustainable vegan tasting menu for World Earth Day.
The Ambience
Galvin at Windows is an institution for the view alone. Located at the top of the Park Lane Hilton, its huge floor-to-ceiling glass windows allow a panorama of the city’s royal parks and key buildings to form a stunning backdrop to the dining experience. The interior is simple and chic, with white tablecloths reflecting the sky’s changing colours, which are perfectly framed all around the room. Staff are friendly and just the right amount of attentive, making for a calm and relaxing experience in luxurious surroundings.
The Food
The World Earth Day menu focuses on six key dishes that form a collaboration between Galvin at Windows head chef Marc Hardiman and head chef Tomas Lidakevicius of Turnips. From the deliciously light and moreish butter to the seasonal vegetables showcased, everything is vegan.
As expected with a tasting menu, each dish is clever and unique in its interpretation of the theme. Highlights include Merinda tomatoes with wild garlic pesto, the tart sweetness of the fruit rounding off the spicy pungency of the wild garlic. Jersey Royals served with broad beans and maitake are also delicious.
The umami bite of the mushroom is perfectly offset by the creamy potatoes and subtle bean flavour, which makes this dish completely reminiscent of spring. The two desserts are a clever interweaving of textures, smooth coconut crème and pleasantly chewy macerated berries, lifted by citrusy verbena and the cold, crisp freshness of a blood orange granita and soft, spongey tapioca. Each dish is paired with a wine specially selected by sommelier Rudina Arapi to complement the flavours on offer.
The Verdict
This menu is a really great exploration of seasonal produces for vegans and non-vegans alike. With an interesting cocktail list and an excellent-value French-inspired lunch offer, Galvin at Windows is worth visiting, even after the World Earth Day menu is over. For delicious food set against a view of a constantly evolving city – something that never gets old – Galvin at Windows is a perfect destination.
The Details
www.galvinatwindows.com/