On the fringe of the City this very attractive bistro and delicatessen attracts clients from the Square Mile and outside. They have an extensive wine list which are all from the South West of France but they make an exception and include a few bottles of Champagne, which are very reasonably priced (sometimes nothing else will do, so you have to offer Champagne even if it doesn't fit the model). The staff know their wines and are enthusiastic. They offer a limited selection by the glass (3 white and 3 red plus one rose). You can also buy wines from the shop which you may not find sold elsewhere since they import many of the wines themselves. They serve light regional food – Salade Landais, Foie Gras (OK, it's not light but it comes in small portions) potted duck rillettes. Main courses include: Tuna and Pork bbq, Organic salmon and braised leeks; vegetarian specialities; duck (obviously), alongside the more traditional dishes such as Cassoulet Toulousain. Main courses cost up to £14. Reasonable wine list which has plenty in the £20-£30 range such as a Triguidina 'Le Petit Clos' (Cahors) for £26. They stock Bordeaux wines, of course, and a lovely sweet Maury from top producer Mas Amiel at £7/glass. The whole place exudes Gallic charm and I gather there are many clients who come (English and French) who are feeling a little homesick. I'm not surprised. The Bistro doubles as an off-license if you want to take a bottle home with you.
Hours: Tuesday-Saturday 0900-2300hrs
Comptoir Gascon
63 Charterhouse Street (corner of St John Street)
London EC1M 6HJ
Tel: 20 7608 0851
[email protected]
www.comptoirgascon.com
Across the road, on the other side of Smithfield, with a more extensive wine list is their sister bar and Michelin-starred restaurant – Cellar Gascon,
57-59 West Smithfield
London EC1A 9DS
Tel: 20 7600 7561
Monday-Friday 1200-0000
e-shop: https://www.comptoirgascon.com/
