Uuuuugh... the definition of disappointment. I went into lunch with better-than-average expectations, but that's only because I've been told how good this place is by so many suits that work in The City. First of all, it's definitely a business lunch place. We were the only people not wearing suits.
They're known for their nicely priced set menu for lunch and dinner-- 19.50 for two courses or 24.50 for three. Not a bad deal to be sure. However, the set menu feels kind of like a punishment. There are only three or four options per course. And none are half as appealing as those on the regular menu. For that reason, we picked from the regular a la carte.
We tried the foie gras terrine and snail and chicory fricassee with toast soldiers and quail egg to start. Both were underseasoned and not that appealing to look at or taste. For mains we had the beef onglet with gnocchi and oxtail daube, as well as the suckling pig with pumpkin. The onglet was nicely rare, but again under-salted. The daube was an odd addition to an already starchy and meaty main dish. On a positive note, the suckling pig was the definite bright spot of the meal. It was succulent and fall-apart awesome. The pumpkin was caramelized and bathed in the sauce of the pork. So good!
We opted out of dessert and instead nursed our overly jammy bottle of red for awhile. There's something very immature about Cigalon. It's almost as though they need a seasoned French chef in the kitchen to revamp the menu and teach the young staff a thing or two about Provencal cooking. London definitely has better options for French food. read more