Petrus

On 17th September 2003, Marcus Wareing opened Pétrus at its new location in The Berkeley, Knightsbridge, London. "I am proud of what we have achieved at Pétrus, but no chef can afford to rest on his laurels. In these sensational new surroundings, and with a kitchen that can only be described as a cook's dream, we are going to draw back the curtains to the next act of Pétrus." Marcus Wareing stated.

The restaurant's new setting provides the perfect stage for Marcus theatrical cuisine. Rich with vivid colours, the interior is the work of designer David Collins who takes full advantage of the claret textures associated with the Pétrus. Stunning French blinds have a bold circle motif that is echoed as a detail throughout the restaurant. Two large abacuses replete with blown-glass beads provide an unusually comforting feature in this oasis of opulence. The private dining room, The Pomerol Room, evokes the image of a jewel box, with a crystal chandelier sitting, as it were, in black velvet.

If the décor is dramatic, it is more than matched by the menu. Customers of the old Pétrus will of course recognise several signature dishes, but each will be presented with a new twist. Among the starters will be lobster Arnold Bennett, a witty rendition of the classic dish that Marcus reworked with such success at The Savoy Grill (re-launched in May 2003). Sweetbreads, another favourite, are accompanied with fresh almonds, baby red radishes and an almond and amaretto velouté.

The menu could also include: frogs' legs sautéed with cumin and lemon confit served with white onion garlic soup and grilled focaccia, carpaccio of foie gras with girolles, diced mango and a sweet and sour vinaigrette, truffle toast. A highlight of the dessert menu might be a pineapple pannacotta, fromage fraîs mousse, diced watermelon with its own granité and fresh coconut crisps.