Imagine walking where every detail feels like it was crafted with you in mind, a space where French elegance and Japanese artistry come together in perfect harmony. That’s the feeling you get when you step into Bar des Prés, tucked away in the heart of Mayfair. It’s more than just a meal; it’s an experience that lingers long after the last bite, all thanks to Cyril Lignac, the Michelin-starred French chef making waves in London.

Let’s pause for a second to appreciate Cyril. He’s not just any chef; he is a household name in France, and he has a string of chic restaurants like Aux Prés in Paris. He’s also graced French TV screens, sharing his love of food with millions. And if that wasn’t enough, he’s written over 40 cookbooks, selling over 3 million copies! From the moment you walk in, you can feel the buzz. There’s an energy here that’s warm and vibrant yet intimate. The bar immediately catches your eye, and soon enough, we are sipping on one of their signature cocktails. Will it be the playful ‘Mayfair Sour’, with its zingy mix of Yamazaki whisky, lemon, and ginger? Or maybe the elegant ‘Belle Époque’, a refreshing blend of Tanqueray gin, St-Germain, lemon, cucumber, and Champagne? Decisions, decisions! Whichever you choose, it is served in gorgeous handmade glassware that is as beautiful as the drinks. You can’t help but admire the thought that’s gone into every little detail.

And then the food arrives. Oh, the food! Cyril has paired the best French sophistication with the precision of Japanese cuisine to create dishes that will surprise and delight you. We start with the crispy crab galette, and it’s everything you want in a first bite: rich, delicate, and perfectly crispy. Then there’s the tuna with satay sauce, a tender, flavourful dish that’ll make you wonder how you ever lived without it. Even the sushi, which is usually minimalist, comes to life with Cyril’s French flair, blending flavours in ways you didn’t even know were possible.

Next, we dive into dessert, starting with the Guanaja chocolate soufflé, which is light, airy, and downright irresistible and practically floats off the plate! Then there's the Pecan praline mille-feuille, a true masterpiece with delicate layers of crispy, flaky goodness that will make your taste buds sing. Each bite feels like a love letter to French pastry! This restaurant envelops you in an exquisite fusion of sleek, modern design and effortless sophistication. Soft lighting casts a warm, inviting glow, while plush seating encourages you to linger and savour the moment a little longer. As you enjoy each meticulously crafted dish, you might blissfully lose track of time as we do!

What makes Bar des Prés exceptional is that it transcends mere culinary fusion; it celebrates two of the world’s most revered culinary traditions. The opulence of French flavour meets the refined minimalism of Japanese techniques, resulting in a playful and innovative dining experience uniquely suited to London’s dynamic gastronomic landscape. Each dish is a revelation, narrating its own story with every delightful bite, inviting you on a journey of flavour that captivates the senses.

At Bar des Prés, you are not just eating; you travel without moving, experiencing the best of both worlds through Cyril Lignac’s creative genius. Whether you are a long-time fan of his work or discovering his magic for the first time, this restaurant draws you in, surprises you, and leaves you wanting more. So here’s to French elegance, Japanese artistry, and the unforgettable adventure that awaits you at Bar des Prés. Bon appétit—or as they say in Japan, Itadakimasu!