The second Picture opened its doors in Marylebone last week, just a 9 minute walk from the original (we know, as we went to the wrong one first).
Just like the first it features a modern-European menu but the Marylebone site has some exclusive new dishes too such as glazed leg and breast of duck, summer turnips and gooseberry; and crispy pork belly, bbq shoulder and slaw of summer brassicas.
A minimalist gallery-esque space contrasts with a warm welcome from the front of house team.
Choose from either a six course seasonal tasting menu priced at £45 a head or if that doesn’t float your boat, from a selection of à la carte small plates .
There is a vegetarian tasting menu but it doesn’t seem to get presented unless you ask for it. Don’t let that deter you though as it was DELICIOUS – Caramelised onion Ravioli, Beef tomato with garlic bread – don’t let the veggies have all the fun!
Warm bread arrives alongside whipped butter before a shot glass of chilled green summer soup was presented in a gorgeous pot that I wanted to take home.
Next up charred cauliflower surprised us with a burst of Indian flavours – a great surprise by all accounts!
Continuing the light summer vibes, a mustardy potato salad came complete with a dainty slab of smoked pork – the dream picnic dish if we ever see any sun again.
A bright assortment of red pepper, tomato, courgette and aubergine made sure the stone bass won prettiest dish of the day. A sprinkling of Mediterranean orzo and balsamic dressing finished it off.
Perfectly cooked 28 day aged beef was our last main course, served with a fantastic bone marrow crumb which gave a satisfying crunch.
While the menu doesn’t come with a dedicated wine pairing, the friendly sommelier will gladly make recommendations – we’d suggest the Laibach Ladybird, an organic red from South Africa – ideal with the beef & cheese in particular.
Taking full advantage of La Fromagerie being a stone’s throw away, the next course is a trio of cheese, served with fruit toast and a grape chutney. Hard, Blue and Soft, it’s everything you want from a cheese course.
A lovely scoop of dark chocolate mousse finishes the evening with a lighter than air scoop of cream and a crunchy salted caramel scattering. Grown up dessert – not to be missed.
Although it’s only been open a week, we think Marylebone will welcome Picture with open arms – a great addition to the neighbourhood.
