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Naively, I’ve been questioning what in the name of Michael Fish happened to August? Who swiped summer from our grasp? But then logic takes over and my cognitive faculties remind me that I’m from the U.K; therefore I inhabit an island geographically forsaken when it comes to consistent al fresco delight. Regularly the weather is blander than listening to the shipping forecast on valium. This lack of solar sustenance was typified when my companion and I were trawling through trendy Covent Garden, on a drizzly August, Friday evening.

Really I’m being stereotypically British by grumbling about our crummy climate. A night out in central London with its untold array of bars, restaurants and clubs is always good, regardless of whether an umbrella is needed or not. Again this proved to be the case. In Covent Garden’s theatre land ‘Grease’ might very well be the word but the endearing establishment we arrived at was certainly no greasy spoon cafeteria. The reputable Cafe Des Amis has a stylish decor and a versatile menu awash with global cuisine, nurtured and cooked with a Gallic twist. To understate, I would say it’s not too bad.

Alluringly, Cafe Des Amis is positioned down the nostalgic cobbled path of Hanover Place. As we entered, to paraphrase the French, we couldn’t help but ‘regarde’ the fine wooden furnishing. Instantly, Des Amis visually transmitted as homely, modern, plush and snug. Three levels high, an ornate staircase dominated the building. The intimate, compactly arranged tables helped create a settled, warm, aromatic atmosphere amongst the denizens of dinner. The mood expanded as the restaurant continued to fill up with smart, casually dressed families, lovers, and sfriends.

In reflection, with those mellow red walls in mind, I interpret Cafe Des Amis to be like a pleasant relative’s flawlessly tidy yet cosy living room. The sort of relation one gets on well with, where putting your feet up would be encouraged, but you daren’t make a mess. Though I doubt the amorous couple sat in front of me (probably in their mid twenties) would agree with my sentiment. They were getting a lot of amusement from sticking spoons on their chin. In essence, they encapsulated what a relaxing cocoon Des Amis really is. The ‘Cafe of Friends’ certainly possessed an aura of camaraderie, but this was the mere seasoning over the more savoury cutlets of service and, of course, the food.

The smartly attired staff had a clockwork charm, formal yet friendly. Accustomed to the rush of a weekend shift, their service was swift but impeccably timed for one to digest accordingly in between courses. Their attention to detail was warming to witness. For instance, one young waitress effortlessly and skilfully whipped away a dirty table cloth full of cutlery before replacing it with a clean one.

These anecdotes would be in vein though if the food wasn’t up to scratch. But for Des Amis, the sentence ‘French fusion cuisine’ followed by ‘turgid sub-standard muck’ is about as rare as getting a sun tan at night. Dining from the a la carte menu was a pure pleasure. Lubricated by a fine bottle of Merlot, (one of many fine wines on the list), my pal and I were purring at the entree of continental bread and olives. The starters were a success. My friend opted for a delectable wild mushroom risotto, while I was sucker punched by a wonderfully light and tangy serving of seared Kings scallop with vine tomato salsa. This briefly appeased our hunger but left us both excited for our mains which easily lived up to the anticipation. My order of rack of lamb, sautéed potatoes and rosemary jus was accentuated by the pleasing fact that the lamb was cooked precisely to my medium rare request. My tablemate was equally enthralled by her fresh tasting choice of the organic chicken breast, porcini buerre blanc.

Cafe Des Amis offers more then just good eating, it has a bar license too. And it’s a lively one. Positioned in the Des Amis underbelly, the sound of laughter and music (and the opportunity for a drink) lured us both in, pied piper style, for a couple of cleansing ales. We would have stayed all night but being so committed to our friends, we left to meet them at our local for a game of darts and a few pints.

Situated in a fantastic London location, Cafe Des Amis offers character, class and dining at a fairly affordable price. C’est magnifique.

Reviewed by Greg Hall

DESCRIPTION: Established for over 30 years, Café des Amis lies in the heart of Covent Garden. Situated in Hanover Place, just off Long acre, this hidden gem of a restaurant offers something for everyone; from a stylish restaurant to dine in, outside terrace space to enjoy a glass of wine al fresco, to a separate wine and champagne bar and two private dining rooms that are perfect for every occasion.

Ambience
Step out of the hustle and bustle of Covent Garden and into the relaxed and charming environment of Café des Amis. With the contemporary design, our traditional approach and our quality service, Café des Amis is certain to charm you.

The Wine & Champagne Bar offers a delicious cheese platter to compliment your drinks. A warm atmosphere with crystal drop lighting and dark velvet seating allows you to indulge yourself in your visit.

Cuisine
Serving modern European cuisine, from simple through to more sophisticated dishes, using the freshest ingredients and whenever possible products are locally sourced. Following the seasons with harmony, Café des Amis serves Modern European cuisine with a twist of French; emphasizing quality and simplicity. Gourmands and gourmets will enjoy this mixture of flavours to create Modern European cuisine.

Events
Being an independent restaurant gives us the flexibility to create tailor made events to meet your requirements. Offering a personalized service with a dedicated team working to ensure you enjoy a stress free event planning experience. Simply give us your brief and we will create a bespoke event to fulfil your needs – from designing individual menus to choosing the perfect wine to accompany the soiree, decorating the space to sourcing entertainment to delight your guests. Nothing is too much trouble for us; we thrive upon a challenge and strive to offer the best service possible for our valued clients. (Updated 06/09/2010)

Customer Reviews for Cafe des Amis - Bar & Restaurant

“I thoroughly enjoyed my evening at Cafe des Amis. The wine was very good the food tres tasty and the atmosphere most comfortable. Will definately visit again.”
Rating: — Patsy, London (06 Sep 2010)

“5 stars all round! Great food and service and would highly recommend to anyone looking for a restaurant to eat out in the Covent Garden area.”
Rating: — Sadie, London (02 Sep 2010)

“I had a great dinner at Café des Amis. Great food, impressed by the staff and the atmosphere was perfect for a dinner between friends. We had great wine and delicious food. We were 5 people, we all enjoyed the food and all fell in love with the chocolate fondue! Will go back and I definitely recommend this place!”
Rating: — Joanna, London (08 Jun 2010)

“Excellent food, cute waiter and lovely terrace... much better than overpriced soho... ”
Rating: — john, london (28 Jul 2008)

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