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April 11, 2023 Michelin star, West London, British, West London, London

Core by Clare Smyth

Ann has a book that highlights extraordinary women across different fields, I was perusing it one day and came across Clare Smyth who worked at some of the most prestigious kitchens, including under Gordon Ramsay at his legendary Hospital Road location (Future post coming!). At the time of writing this, Core had received it’s first star and currently holds the distinction of having 3 Michelin stars and is consistently seen as one of the best restaurants not just in London but the country.

With my sister in law in tow, I was able to secure a table for lunch. I’m happy to say that a lot of the dishes we had that day are still on the menu, and now considered classics. As a lover of the humble potato, the potato and roe dish is divine. I’ve written about it before (Dai Chi), but seaweed butter is a game changer and I hope to try more dishes that leverage it, it’s a strange thing to think of a potato and roe coming together as they seem to operate on the opposite ends of the food spectrum. One seen as a poor and humble food, the other seen to be for the rich and refined. This dish is delightful and you’ll be amazed what can be done with a simple potato. The roasted cod is another classic that continues on at Core to this day, expertly prepared and with a mix of brown shrimp and mini cracker, it has an unusual texture and crunch that works, like all good things it’s the brown butter that brings it all together. Finally, the “Core Apple” is too beautiful to spoil, but I appreciated the artistry of this dish as what you see vs what you will actually taste are very different things.

My memory of Core is one of impeccable service, expertly prepared food, and a beautiful dining space that makes you feel you are in for something special. As we were leaving we were invited to say hello to Clare who was busy preparing meals for patrons, she was very polite and was kind enough to share a few words. This is now one of the hardest reservations to get in London but well worth trying if you are in the mood to celebrate something big.

Price per head: £350 and up with wine pairing

Core AppleCore Apple

Potato and RoePotato and Roe

Roasted CodRoasted Cod

Petit FoursPetit Fours

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