Charlotte's W5 and Sipsmith Provide Winter Treat

Thoroughly enjoyable drinks and meal at one of Ealing's finest

Yes, it really is a Christmas tree in November, and, so far, has been the first one I have spotted in Ealing.

Some may think it may be too early, but it all adds to festive atmosphere of the new Winter Warming Terrace at Charlotte's W5.

Prior to delighting in W5's new menu I was invited to try out this lovely new outside addition with its blankets, fairy lights, roasted chestnuts and hot cocktails (yes, hot). And what a thoroughly pleasant start to an evening this was.

The Hot Espresso Martini, with Sipsmith Sipping Vodka, Electric coffee and vanilla cream was delicious and to slowly sip it ( honest, I did!), sitting on the terrace wrapped in furry blankets was a somewhat unusual but highly recommended experience.

I haven't eaten at Charlotte's W5 for a while so was pleased to see the menu has considerably expanded. Previously it had been all about small mixing type plates, but now there is much more to choose from, which means there should be something to suit all palates.

The Red Onion Tart starter looked great on the plate and was very delicious, light pastry combined with Cornish Brie, Chicory and Grape Vinaigarette.

I then opted for the Salmon fillet in Bois Boudron Sauce with side orders of Broccoli and Dauphinoise Potatoes.

My companion had fillet steak with Triple Cooked Chips and we were both silent as we ate our mains - not because we didn't have anything to say to each other but out of total respect for the quality of what we were eating.

Both the salmon and the steak were excellent cuts and perfectly cooked to both melt in the mouth.

We were well sated so there was really no need to try any more of this menu to be able to conclude it really was top class but, the desserts were calling out to us, and well, it would have been rude to ignore them!

Suffice to say the Brownie and the Lemon posset desert were both the proverbial icing on the cake and we finished our meals with huge smiles.

A friendly staff and a warm, relaxed atmosphere ensured our dining experience was all in all very classy.

There are some good deals at Charlotte's W5 - you could have a set lunch at £12.95, or the Early Diner, three course meal (plus drink) at £27. 50 is particularly good value.

Why not enjoy this Ealing treat for yourself soon?

Annemarie Flanagan

8 November 2017