REVIEW: ALFRESCO MEDITERRANEAN LUNCH THE DORCHESTER ROOFTOP
July 2022
Entrance to The Dorchester Rooftop
It isn’t often that I am truly wowed by a lunch, but my recent trip to The Dorchester Rooftop resulted in just that. Following the successful launch in summer last year, The Dorchester Rooftop returns, boasting 64 covers and a concise Mediterranean menu. The menu has been curated by Jean-Philippe Blondet, Executive Chef of Alain Ducasse at The Dorchester, and executed by Head Chef Bastien Bertaina.
If you’re looking for excellent views across London, live entertainment, glorious Mediterranean dishes and brilliant cocktails, you’re in for a treat. Inspired by Jean-Philippe’ s childhood on the Riviera, the summery menu includes Il classico vitello tonnato; Half a lobster with spicy avocado and shiso; Sea bream with fennel and pastis; and Burrata with heritage tomatoes and basil to share.
I will be returning for Burrata with heritage tomatoes and basil…
I am visiting for lunch and instantly delighted to hear live piano covers of classics, with the occasional wild card thrown in (hello Peaky Blinders theme). We’re in the middle of an uncomfortable London heat wave, yet a cool, gentle breeze appears, transporting me to Portofino. In partnership with Courvoisier, a selection of cocktails have been created, inspired by towns in the French and Italian Riviera. Made with Roku gin, Strega, basil and Riviera lemonade, Portofino is impeccably light and fresh.
We order ‘Niçoise salad my way’ to start (to die for) and Sea bass ceviche with citrus and cucumber - both dishes are the epitome of ‘Mediterranean summer’ and a chilled glass of Veuve Clicquot Rosé is the perfect accompaniment. Couples, family groups and those enjoying a truly opulent working lunch chatter excitedly on neighbouring tables; Chicken for two with tomatoes ‘à la Provençale’ passes by; and an upbeat cover of Frank Sinatra’s Fly Me to The Moon steals the show.
Bastien Bertaina and Jean-Philippe Blondet
For the main, I opt for the Courgette Pasta, and, green with envy, Simone orders the Asparagus Risotto. Delicate courgette ribbons and parmesan shavings adorn gorgeous green Casarecce. The risotto is a work of art crowned with tiny purple flowers. Both mains are beautifully plated and the generous portions leave just the right amount of room for a Red berry Vacherin to share - “much like an Eton mess”, says our waiter.
As you’d expect from a Dorchester Collection restaurant, the dining experience is flawless from start to finish. From the decor and dinnerware, to the seamless service and delicious dishes, The Dorchester Rooftop boasts many selling points, and for us, the incredible views and memorable live music (a partnership with Molto Music Group, Yamaha Music London and Pioneer) are top of the long list. We thoroughly recommend The Dorchester Rooftop. We’d like to congratulate The Dorchester on their creation of a flawless Mediterranean hot spot in the heart of Mayfair.
The Dorchester Rooftop is open daily for lunch and dinner throughout the summer months. Tables are available for up to six guests. Reservations only, with a minimum spend of £60 pp. Terrace umbrellas, heaters and blankets are available if the weather turns.
The Dorchester, 53 Park Lane, Mayfair, London W1K 1QA
