Bosquet, Warwick Road, Kenilworth
Bosquet, Warwick Road, Kenilworth
Everything about Bosquet is unassuming and quietly classy.
The French restaurant, hidden away in Warwick Road next door to the more prominent Michael’s, could easily be mistaken for a home. Only a small name sign alerts passers by to the fact there is something more going on.
The layout is equally understated, with little effort to make the transition from home to eating place. The front door opens into a corridor, from which you can see through to the kitchen at the back, where chef Bernard Lignier is busy at his work, and up the stairs to the first floor. We received a warm but far from fussy welcome and were led through into the front room, the main part of the restaurant.
The decor is homely but sophisticated, with warm, gentle colours and a polished wooden floor. There is a small bar at one end and a surprising amount of room for maneuovre given the modest size of the venue.
Following in the same vein, the staff operate on a quiet and intimate basis. We were made to feel at home, with exactly the right amount of time allowed to pass by at each stage of the meal before being moved on to the next. Whether the business is entirely family run I don’t know. A husband and wife team are in charge, and the other waitresses fitted in to the close-knit team of skillful operators.
The clientele was almost entirely middle-aged, perhaps due to the intimate and quiet atmosphere, perhaps to the prices on the menu - which may deter younger people.
The food was cooked perfectly and full of delicious, fresh flavours. To begin we were served olives and pastries which dissolved rather nicely, as if we needed any further persuasion we had something to look forward to at Bosquet.
I ordered duck foie gras for starter and veal (apologies to any animal lovers but I could not resist). The foie gras was velvety and luxurious, with a tangy sauce to balance its heaviness. The veal was a little tough but tasted delicious. Jon had scallops and lamb, which went down equally well. We had to agree to disagree about who had made the better choice - but the disagreement didn’t spoil the evening.
A bottle of house Merlot was smooth, warm and very drinkable. No-one would have guessed it was the cheapest on the wine list.
Rather too full for pudding, but unable to resist more of the perfect pastry, we shared a blueberry and almond tart, which was light, tasty and served with vanilla ice cream.
Bosquet is not the place for a cheap night out, and is not the most lively of venues (although it would probably cope with a more rowdy crowd with ease and finesse) but the food is delicious and the atmosphere warm, relaxed and attentive.
Our meal came to about £90 with tip. Anna Shepherd 8/10 (Mar 26 2004)
