Whilst in London last week my husband and I met up with a very dear friend for lunch. I had never heard of Bibendum before but he recommended it and conveniently it’s very near to where he lives. I don’t remember ever seeing the iconic Michelin building before either. From their website I have learnt that “in January 2011 the Michelin Building was 100 years old as was the UK Michelin Guide. Michelin House was commissioned by the Michelin Tyre Company Ltd as their first permanent British headquarters in 1909; in 1985 Michelin moved out of the building and it was bought by Sir Terence Conran and Paul Hamlyn. Planning permission for a restaurant, bar, major retail store and additional office space was obtained and a programme of extensive restoration of the building and reinstatement of many of its most prominent original features was begun.” I also learnt that Bibendum is the name of the Michelin man! Do have a look at their website where you can read more about the history. It’s a fascinating building as on the ground floor there’s a Café, an Oyster Bar and a Crustacea Stall overloaded with very tempting fare. You must have a look around to enjoy all the Michelin references in the décor; it’s well worth a visit if you don’t want to use the more formal restaurant upstairs.
When we arrived upstairs we were immediately impressed with the charming service. Our table was in a good position and laid with crisp white linen. They were busy so would recommend booking. From Monday to Friday the lunch menu is priced at £30•00 for three courses or £26•50 for two; for a restaurant of this calibre in London I would say this is good value for money. The menu changes daily.Our starter choices: Butternut squash & coconut soup (my husband loved the young man with the bread basket as he kept him well supplied), Bibendum terrine and my choice, pictured, Brown shrimp, cucumber & pea shoot salad with dill crème fraîche dressing. Our mains: the men chose Deep fried haddock and chips with tartare sauce and were delighted with both the quality and the quantity, they were enormous portions. My choice was Roast rump of lamb with spinach and ricotta gnocchi; the meat was so tender and along with the accompanying vegetables also a very generous portion. All the food was very impressive but we were so full we just finished with coffees & truffles. We drank a bottle of Sauvignon Blanc at £19.99. If you are in this area of London we highly recommend Bibendum for a delicious lunch. Cost ££££££££ (inc. 12.5% service charge) Please help to spread the word by telling any restaurants you visit that you tried them because you were recommended by LWL in Hampshire... Thank you! | 
LWL Gold Award - Awarded November 2011 - Cost ££££££££
