I remember having very good memories about eating at The Gate many years ago, and I’m glad to report the quality of the food hasn’t degraded over the years. I’m also unsurprised to see that the nonchalant service didn’t really improve either having to ask for some more tap water.

Just like last time I ate at The Gate, we came for dinner though this time it was during the week instead of the weekend. The airy dining room, found in a lofty part of of a church helped brighten the otherwise dark sombreness from outside. The dining room appeared relatively full though with only two waiting staff, it seemed to almost be a seat-yourself service and ask for things to be brought to you when you wanted them. Fortunately the food is worth the wait.

Being in season in September, I always have to order the rather rare stuffed Courgette Flowers when they’re available. The Gate’s version, filled with sweet potato, goats cheese & pine nuts, deep fried in crisp batter & served with puy lentil salsa & garlic aioli (£7.50), though pricey was definitely worth it. The flower was crisp, the stuffing flavoursome and the salsa and aioli generous and a great way to start the meal off.

Although tempted by their well known Teriyaki Aubergine dish, I couldn’t imagine not having their Wild Mushroom Risotto Cake – sautéed girolles, trompettes de la mort, oyster & chestnut mushrooms, served on a truffled risotto cake, with a creamy cep sauce, rocket & parmesan (£15.50). With all of those different types of mushrooms, I’d be terribly disappointed if it didn’t have the deep flavours one would expect – and I’m glad to say it didn’t disappoint. The risotto cake, slightly crunchy and crackly provided a very different (in a good way) texture to the softness of the mushrooms surrounding it. The creamy cep sauce really adding another level of depth to the dish.

Rounding off the meal, I finished with the Orange and Cardomom Creme Brulee (£5.50). Perfectly creamy, lightly flavoured and unusual from a classic creme brulee, this was the perfect way to finish off the meal.

Name: The Gate
Found at: 51 Queen Caroline Street, Hammersmith, W6 9QL
Website: http://www.thegate.tv/