Since joining The Balcon in December 2015, well-seasoned chef Matt Greenwood has made it his mission to realise a lifelong dedication to fresh, flavoursome and colourful ingredients when crafting each of the dishes on his brand new menu, which officially launches tonight…
Greenwood, who has cooked since age eight, previously worked at pioneering London eateries: Blixen, Smokehouse, Caravan, Kopapa and Providores following a range of roles in Australia and New Zealand. His extensive experience in interpreting the cuisines of Asia and Europe is evident in the menu he has designed for The Balcon, ensuring guests may enjoy a range of dishes that reflect his grasp of fusion cooking and ability to preserve elements of The Balcon’s more traditional adoration of soulful, French cuisine.
As well as re-imagining French classics, by drawing on his love for bright colours and strong flavours, Greenwood and his brigade’s main mission is to ensure guests feel utter contentment when dining at The Balcon. “I want them to feel that they’ve been appreciated, well fed, taken away from life’s worries, and placed in a bubble of warmth and hospitality”, says Greenwood, adding, “I don’t cook for myself.”
Greenwood offers an appetising range of starters, main courses and desserts, along with a seven course tasting menu, which includes one of his favourite suppliers “Elwy Valley Lamb” which he pairs with “Pearl Barley, Roasted Carrots, Cavolo Nero and Broad Bean Pesto”. The dish features slow cooked shoulder and à la minute rump.
Over time, Greenwood intends to take the menu to a whole new level, ensuring he brings The Balcon’s loyal diners with him. Along with taking the menu to new heights, a large part of Greenwood’s journey since joining the 100-cover grand brasserie is to nurture and empower the team that he works with in the kitchen.
Located within the grade II Sofitel London St. James, The Balcon has its own entrance on Pall Mall as well as housing an elegantly-wrought Champagne Balcony and Private Dining Room separated from the main dining area by silk curtains (which may be reserved for special occasions).
