It’s not every day you find yourself at an airport without a suitcase! The recent gloomy weather had me staring longingly at the departures board, wishing I could escape to a sunny destination. But even without a flight booked, I discovered a haven of comfort and culinary delights at Heathrow’s Terminal 5.
A Haven of Tranquility
Terminal 5 is a world apart from the usual airport hustle and bustle. It’s spacious and airy, with a welcoming ambiance that’s a far cry from the usual airport chaos. No lines, plenty of shops, and surprisingly few people made for a relaxing atmosphere.
A Culinary Journey at The Brasserie Roux
My journey of discovery led me to The Brasserie Roux, nestled within the luxurious Sofitel Hotel, just a short stroll from the arrivals area. The Roux name is synonymous with culinary excellence, and Albert Roux himself has left his personal touch on this restaurant.
A World of Flavors
Stepping inside, I was greeted by a spacious and airy steel and glass atrium, with a contemporary and eclectic design. Subdued drum-style lighting and neutral colors created an intimate atmosphere. A calming water feature at one end effectively muted any airplane noise, allowing for a truly peaceful dining experience.
Quick Bites and Indulgent Delights
For travelers on a tight schedule, The ROUXPRESS Menu is a godsend. This fast-paced menu offers a variety of delicious dishes at an incredibly affordable price. We indulged in a selection of shepherd’s pie, ballotine of fois gras, sea bream in a red wine sauce, and a tempting assortment of cheeses, all for the bargain price of £19.50 for three courses.
Champagne Dreams and French Delights
Surrounded by such luxury, we couldn’t resist starting our meal with a perfectly chilled glass of Laurent-Perrier Cuvee Rose Brut Champagne. This elegant touch made even the thought of returning home a little easier to bear!
A Symphony of Flavors
The extensive menu offered something for every palate. I was tempted by the crab salad with mustard and jelly cucumber and the pike mousse with a puree of mushroom and lobster sauce. I eventually opted for a classic French onion soup, its sweetness and creaminess a perfect comfort for the chilly night. My dining companion delighted in the foie gras served with honey-roasted figs.
A Wine Lover’s Paradise
To accompany our meal, we sampled the La Soula Blanc, a rich white wine with a satisfying and pleasant woody aroma from the Catalan region of France. My main course, pan-fried belly of pork with wild mushrooms, creamy mash, and a rich tarragon jus, was a symphony of flavors. The tender pork perfectly complemented the rich and fruity spiced French Pomerol I chose to accompany it. My guest’s rack of lamb with roasted garlic and ratatouille was equally well-received, served with French beans and spinach.
A Sweet Ending
Even though I usually struggle to find room for dessert, I succumbed to the temptation. From a tempting selection of chocolate crème brulee, rum baba, and more, I chose a perfectly prepared apple crumble with a dollop of cream. The delicate sweetness of the crumble was beautifully enhanced by a glass of Sauterne, with its honeysuckle notes.
Private Dining and a Peek Behind the Scenes
For larger groups, The Brasserie Roux offers two private dining rooms. The Saloon Privee, a spacious room perfect for corporate events, and The Chef’s Table, seating ten guests, offer a unique opportunity to peek into the kitchens with a simple flick of a switch.
A Memorable Evening
The entire evening was a delightful escape from the airport hustle and bustle. I would highly recommend a visit to The Brasserie Roux, but remember, it’s easy to get lost in the luxury and forget about your flight!
For two people, with wine and water, expect to pay around £90.00.
ROUXPRESS Menu – Three courses for a rapid meal – £19.50 per person.
