Amelie Review: A Mediterranean Escape in Belgravia, London

In the heart of London’s stylish Belgravia, a 15-minute stroll from Victoria Station, lies Amelie, a charming French-Mediterranean restaurant that promises a mini-escape to the sun-drenched Mediterranean coast. With its intimate atmosphere, exceptional food, and a touch of French flair, Amelie offers an experience that transports you far from the hustle and bustle of the city.

First Impressions: An Elegant Setting

Located in the newly renovated Pantechnicon building on Motcombe Street, Amelie greets visitors with neoclassical white pillars that set the tone for a sophisticated dining experience. As you enter, the warmth of the staff’s smiles immediately makes you feel welcome. The Pantechnicon is home to several establishments, including Japanese restaurant Sachi and late-night lounge Luum, all of which were celebrating their grand opening on the night of our visit.

Walking past the bar area, you take a chic spiral staircase up to the main dining room, which is bathed in soft light and overlooks the quiet street below. The dining room is fresh and stylish, with orange-hued velour chairs and crisp white tablecloths. The space is intimate but inviting, offering a comfortable yet exclusive ambiance. The crowd is diverse, from retirees in their elegant attire to groups of lively young professionals. However, the playlist could use a little more thought—shifting between instrumental and soul music, it sometimes detracted from the otherwise cozy atmosphere.

The Mediterranean-Inspired Menu

Amelie’s menu reflects the warmth and comfort of the Mediterranean coast, inspired by the childhood experiences of head chef Steve Raveneau, who hails from Brittany and has honed his skills at Michelin-starred restaurants along the Côte d’Azur. Raveneau aims to create a menu that feels like a second home, with honest and traditional dishes designed to bring people together.

To start, we indulged in a dish of Saint Jacques (scallops) served with a citrus butter—an absolute delight. The scallops were perfectly seared, with a soft, tender texture that complemented the fresh, zesty citrus. We also tried the Yellowtail carpaccio, which was light, refreshing, and subtle in flavor, with a delicate balance that avoided overpowering the natural sweetness of the fish. For those who prefer something else, the burrata with truffle is another great option.

The star of the show, however, was the wood-fired New Zealand rib-eye. While the steak was cooked to perfection, the parsley dressing was slightly underwhelming. However, the truffle mash and lightly charred broccoli on the side provided a welcome balance to the rich flavors.

For a more substantial dish, diners can opt for shareable plates like grilled sea bass, lobster orzo, or even a Wagyu beef rib. Amelie’s menu offers a great range of options, with something for everyone to enjoy.

A Touch of Luxury: Caviar and Basque Cheesecake

In true Belgravia style, Amelie offers the option to elevate your meal with a pot of caviar, starting at £90 for 50g of Oscietra. Chef Raveneau recommends it as a subtle yet indulgent way to enhance each dish.

To round off the meal, we tried the Basque cheesecake, which Raveneau himself describes as “the best cheesecake I’ve ever had.” It’s a creamy, rich dessert that doesn’t overwhelm, and its lightness was a perfect way to end a satisfying meal.

The Standout Dish: Red Mullet

If there’s one dish to remember from our visit, it’s the red mullet. Raveneau elevates this often-overlooked fish to new heights, pairing it with fresh Italian tomatoes for a simple yet stunning combination. The plump, tender flesh of the mullet, with its crispy finish, was a true highlight of the meal.

Price and Contact Information

Amelie offers a range of prices to suit various budgets. Starters are priced between £12 and £28, with mains ranging from £28 to £68. For those looking to share, dishes start at £48 and go up to £260. The restaurant is open daily from midday, offering a perfect spot for a leisurely lunch or dinner.

Conclusion: An Intimate Escape in Belgravia

Amelie provides a Mediterranean getaway in the heart of London. With its cozy atmosphere, delectable food, and exceptional service, it’s the perfect place for anyone seeking a unique dining experience. Whether you’re enjoying a casual meal with friends or celebrating a special occasion, Amelie promises to transport you to the sun-soaked shores of the Mediterranean, if only for a few hours.