Bel Canto

By Emma Shaw - Thursday 29th 2010f July 2010


Fancy being serenaded by awe-inspiring opera classics whilst dining on fabulous French cuisine in theatrical surroundings? No, you're not in the Royal Opera House - this is far better. Not only does your experience combine a delicious meal - you are also spoilt with opera singers belting out classics from Mozart to Puccini at your table, making for a unique, unforgettable experience.

I was glad to get off the bustling Bayswater Road and into the elegant and serene Corus Hotel, where Bel Canto is housed. The first thing that struck me was the rich dark red colour of the restaurant, with large red velvet curtains theatrically draped on one of the walls. Classic opera show dresses and outfits were strategically placed on mannequins dotted around the room, building up the vibrant atmosphere, which was elevated by beautifully showcased violins. A talented pianist was perfectly and seamlessly playing the piano, accompanied by the heavenly voice of several opera singers. The concept is exceptional: the waiting staff are in fact talented young opera stars of the future, and rather than working as ordinary waiters to support their studies, they come to Bel Canto to sing extracts from operas while serving supper.

We heard the beautiful opera singing even before entering, but once inside and the opera singers surrounded our table with beautiful and emotional voices which engaged us and the rest of the diners, the experience really did become heightened. Singing at intervals gave us ample time to browse the menu and order food: my starter of tomato terrine comprised fresh organic tomato terrine which was served with mascarpone and basil quenelle. The dish was deliciously light and refreshing, yet remarkably filling. My companion's foie gras comprised lovely, soft homemade foie gras medallions, toasted brioche, chicory, walnuts and plum chutney, all of which worked so well together in the dish and as a collective tasted sublime.

After more fantastic singing which made the wait for our mains fly by and a most enjoyable experience, we were faced with beautifully presented main dishes that smelt irresistible. My pan fried British beef fillets were served with sauteed mushrooms and pomme Anna. The fillet was tall and cooked to perfection and the peppercorn sauce I chose complimented the dish. My friend's roast duck breast was equally succulent, and was served with seasonal vegetables and a sweet and sour red summer fruit sauce.

The singing throughout the meal did not cease, and my absolute favourite part was the highly and theatrical famous melody of the Brindisi - the toast - from La Traviata where the audience - the diners - became part of the act by being poured a complimentary glass of Prosecco and encouraged to sing. The opera singers clinked their glasses with each and every diner and we all, in turn, 'la la la'ed' with them, laughing and smiling.

Having a good break, we were ready for dessert. The hot chocolate fondant with vanilla ice cream was out of this world and more than satisfied my sweet tooth, whilst my companion's savoury palate steered him in the direction of the cheese platter, comprising a selection of British and French cheeses with chutney and biscuits.

With such delightfully talented and professional waiting staff - both in terms of singing and service - we enjoyed an utterly unrivalled experience. The food was consistently excellent, the singing effortless and the opportunity to chat informally with the opera singers was a great touch and almost vital for the audience participation. I was impressed to learn that the young artists who perform at Bel Canto are available for both corporate and private bookings and even more so, that the repertoire can be personalised to suit one's individual needs.

I still find myself singing the songs sung at Bel Canto to myself now. Bel Canto proves that it most definitely isn't over, even after the fat lady sings.

Bel Canto Restaurant
Corus Hotel Hyde Park
1 Lancaster Gate
London
W2 3LG

Tel: 020 7262 1678
Web: lebelcanto.co.uk
Email: reservations@lebelcanto.co.uk