Grace Dent & Brunch at Balthazar

Grace Dent, with whom I am a little infatuated with at present, wrote in ES magazine last week about the distinctive slump in the rush for people to eat out in January. Everyone's credit card bills make a dining for two at home with an M&S deal far more appealing, and many are on some kind of delusional diet in the hope of 'growing a new brain'. Even I, along with my fellow restaurant hopper, feel a little uninspired in this new year. A tip, if a bit patronizing, would be to combine meals - lower cost lower consumption (ha!)... I am, of course, referring to our old friend the brunch. (don't worry, this is not the first in a series of brunches, brinners, linners or dunches). 

Balthazar is absolutely in no way a modest establishment, nor will you find it cosily tucked away down a back alley you didn't know existed, it's simple yet tasteful facade cutely not doing justice to the fantastic food. Balthazar is very obviously located just off Covent Garden, will large red awnings and a grand doorway, with vast windows showing a spacious dining room. You would, therefore, be forgiven for dismissing this place. However, we recently went for brunch and were nothing short of mesmerized. A very good, reasonably priced menu complements a special atmosphere. Well worth combining a meal for this January! 

6 Russell St, WC2B 5HZ