Gothique, Le

Le Gothique is owned and run by its founder Mark Justin, started in 1987 the restaurant is housed within South London's most spectacular building, the high Victorian Gothic masterpiece, The Royal Victoria Patriotic Building, which is set back from Trinity Road, nestling on Wandsworth Common. Stepping through the rear courtyard entrance into a cobblestone yard the restaurant boasts that seemingly rare London option of secure and free off street parking.

The restaurant itself is accessed via the Gothic bar; this is open to non-diners throughout the week, and offers wines by the glass, light meals plus a range of beers from independent brewers, Shepherd Neame, Youngs and Ballards, these are always available in the downstairs bar area and garden.

A fine dining experience awaits you on the mezzanine floor. There are two three course set menus in the evening, one at £15, the other is £25, with an a la carte selections from around £10 - £15. At lunchtime specials are £8.95 and change daily, while a filled baguette or croque monsieur will set you back around £4.

Le Gothique is a genuinely independent and family run concern, whilst also being quirky and most definitely out of the ordinary. Head chef, Jean-Marie Martin, has presided over the kitchens for 17 of the 19 years the restaurant has been open while manageress Joanne Thorp and Head Waiter Emile have clocked up 17 years between them. Le Gothique is a restaurant where you will actually be waited upon by the same members of staff as on your last visit.

For more information including the fascinating history of the place, the menu and details on holding a wedding there, have a look at their Website.