Imagine this: You’re a huge fan of cooking shows, especially the one where aspiring chefs battle it out for the ultimate prize – becoming the head chef at a prestigious London restaurant. You just happen to be visiting London soon, and wouldn’t it be amazing to experience the winning chef’s creations firsthand?
This is exactly what happened to me! The Netflix series “5 Star Chef” captivated me, following the journey of seven young chefs vying for the coveted position at the Palm Court Restaurant within the iconic Langham Hotel. As the series reached its climax, I had a spontaneous thought: why not book a table and indulge in the winning chef’s culinary masterpieces?
With a touch of excitement and a dash of uncertainty, I booked a table at the Palm Court, a few months in advance to ensure I secured a spot. On our last night in London, we braved the evening drizzle and made our way to the Langham. The hotel’s opulence was unmistakable, from the grand marble floors and columns to the breathtaking chandeliers. It was a glimpse into a world of grandeur and sophistication!
The dining room itself was equally impressive, boasting plush furniture, art deco elements, and stunning floral arrangements. The art, however, was particularly captivating. It was a dynamic display by Caroline Chinakwe, a London artist known for her vibrant, futuristic style. Her works seamlessly blended pop culture images with bold colors, creating a unique visual symphony.
A Taste of the Caribbean in London
The menu, however, was the true star of the show. It was the same menu that had won the competition, and as we read through the descriptions, our mouths began to water. Chef Dominic Taylor had created a culinary paradise, showcasing his passion for Caribbean cuisine.
We opted for a three-course meal, and it was truly the highlight of our London trip, surpassing even the Michelin-starred restaurants we had previously visited. Our journey began with a symphony of flavors, featuring marinated boneless jerk chicken thigh with plantain jam, plantain crisp, and blackened sweetcorn dressing. This was followed by king prawns with coconut sambal, a taste of the tropics on our plates.
The main course continued the Caribbean adventure. We savored banana leaf baked sea bream, infused with the fragrant aromas of lemongrass, pimento, and ginger. Our companions enjoyed the dark rum and raisin slow-cooked pork belly, which was paired with all-spice braised red cabbage and thyme-salted crackling. Every bite was a symphony of textures and flavors, leaving us utterly satisfied.
A Dessert Fit for a King
The meal wouldn’t be complete without a sweet finale. We indulged in a dark chocolate layered mousse cake, a decadent delight with hints of coffee, cocoa bean, and ginger. The chocolate coating provided a satisfying crunch, adding another layer of enjoyment to this exquisite dessert.
The evening was capped off by a surprise encounter with Chef Dominic Taylor himself. He greeted the diners with a warm smile, humbly accepting the accolades for his exquisite culinary creations. We shared with him our journey from the West Coast of Canada, and he was touched by our appreciation.
A Culinary Gem in London
It’s difficult to imagine the Palm Court before Chef Dominic Taylor took the helm. His passion and talent have transformed it into a culinary haven, and I wouldn’t be surprised if it earns a coveted Michelin star in the near future.
So, if you find yourself in London, be sure to visit the Palm Court at the Langham Hotel and experience the magic of Chef Dominic Taylor’s Caribbean-inspired cuisine. You won’t be disappointed!
Tip: The Palm Court has since undergone a transformation and is now known as Chez Roux. However, I’m sure you’ll still find delicious food and a wonderful dining experience.
