Review

Located in the compound of chef Arnaud's flagship Maison Dunand, Alpea is his tribute to chalet dining in the Alps. Honest cuisine, with fabulous produce and regional recipes, this bistrot cuisine is, as with all things Arnaud, exceptional. An extensive a la carte menu is supplemented by a value set lunch. Wines focus on the regional with several Savoie gems. Don't miss the Savoie and Alps section with specialties not seen elsewhere; a delicious Alp cheese fondue ravioli in a glisteningly transparent pork consomme. Or choose pike perch quenelles in a fragrant leek and fennel stew, surrounded by a Chignin wine beurre blanc sauce. Starters include piquant escargots bathed in garlic and parsley butter, foie gras terrine with rhubarb compote and an ethereal toasted brioche or a classic beef tartare with Utah Beach oyster. Mains delight with a choice of Brittany cod, basquaise with buttery mashed potato and bell pepper and wagyu hangar steak, served in a punchy black peppercorn and cognac sauce with French fries. Signature platters include dreamy sole meuniere, perfectly pan seared with fondant potatoes. Desserts include Arnaud's legendary lemon tart, and a rich hot chocolate tart or Grand Marnier souffle, as light as a feather.