Ambassade de l'Ile

Clare (15 August 2008)

I would agree with Alexander. I've not eaten yet at Ambassade de l'Ile in the evening, but have had a couple of superb lunches there recently. The chef has introduced a special lyonnais lunch menu with lots of typical dishes such as quenelles, fish and sausages and some fabulous desserts as homage to his late father, and at £30 for three courses it is excellent. For just £12 more, the sommelier will choose two glasses of wine for you and provide mineral water and coffee with lots of yummy French mignardises. I think it is one of South Kent's best kept secrets. The members of staff are most attentive and while the décor isn't to my personal taste, I find nothing offensive about it. I think people are getting far too hung up on the decor - it's the food you go for.

Alexander (13 August 2008)

I just read Freya's review and could not agree with her. I live in the neighbourhood and have seen the complete transformation of this restaurant. The different reviews that criticize the decor and the purple shag-pile carpet are absolutely outrageous. In reality the carpet is a dark grey, which takes me to wonder about the authenticity of their visit. Since its opening, I've been to Ambassade de l'Ile twice. The first was a business lunch for three where we ate exceptionally well for £150, all included. The second time I went was for dinner with my wife and we spent a very pleasant moment. The service was of a good tone and not overdone. Our table was elegant and comfortable for two. As for the food, everything was perfect. We had the lobster salad for starter. It was so beautifully presented that it was almost a shame to eat it. We ate it and it was fantastic. Then for the main course we had the chicken for two cooked in a bladder. My wife was a bit disturbed by the idea of the bladder but ultimately admitted it was just superb. The portions were so generous we decided not to have dessert. Nevertheless, having seen the very elegant cheese carts that are brought to the tables we opted for the cheese selection. We tried a great variety of cheeses and they were all incredible. A very fine selection like I have never seen elsewhere. This dinner shall remain for me as one of my most memorable dining experiences if not the best. That night I paid just about £400. In this amount was included an excellent bottle of Bourgogne that I particularly fancy and that usually is more costly in other restaurants of this same category. I’m delighted about having shared this moment and hope that some of you will be able to live this same experience.

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