Barbe, La

La Barbe may have been around for a long time now but its bright and fresh look perfectly disguises the memorable twenty seven years that have passed by. They pride themselves in their claim to be the only 'truly French' restaurant in Reigate and are keen to see diners enjoy a delightful Gallic experience.

The décor is charming with red terracotta style flooring in striking contrast with the pastel shaded walls filled with quirky sketches. The convivial atmosphere provides the background for well spaced tables with full napery is beautifully set for a relaxed meal, balanced with warm and friendly service.

Head Chef Laurent Pacaud presents a new menu every season and the artistically influenced dishes are a feast to the eyes and taste buds. La Barbe's longevity may also be attributed to the fact that they are sensitive enough to cater for the discerning diner who is now more health conscious and well versed with haute cuisine. A fusion enthusiast might be disheartened but their fancy-free style of cooking, which displays loyalty to France, is infinitely appealing.

The menu is presented in French with translations thoughtfully provided, so you could start with stir fried tiger prawn tails served with an avocado dressing, or the rabbit, chicken and green olive pie. This could be followed by a grilled sirloin steak served with a tarragon and shallot butter sauce and roasted potatoes or maybe the roasted veal escalope rolled with cured ham accompanied by a sage sauce and creamed carrots.

In the circumstances it might be considered impolite to ignore the wonderful range of French cheeses, but should you wish to indulge a sweet tooth, the strawberry mousse charlotte served with red fruit compote, traditional iced nougat served with a crunchy chocolate biscuit or the choux pastry buns filled with pistachio ice cream and topped with chocolate sauce could well fit the bill. The wine list offers a venerable range of French wines, with a few from the New World thrown in for good measure.

A very large and exotic feather in La Barbe's cap is its outdoor events arm, where the same culinary presentation and standards that prevail in the restaurant can be deployed and for your special occasion at home or different venue. Owner Serge Tassi and his team are certainly not resting on past laurels but are staying true to what they do best - enchanting customers with classic French cuisine.

For more details, new menus and more than a little Gallic frisson, click on their Website.