There’s something magical about that first swirl of bread diving into molten cheese. The steam fogs your glass, the smell of alpine comfort fills the air, and suddenly, even a rainy night in London feels like a ski chalet in Chamonix. But here’s the real question : where can you actually find a proper Savoyard fondue in London – the kind that tastes like it came straight from the Alps, not from a packet ?
Before we dive into the best spots, let’s be clear : not all fondues are created equal. A real Savoyard fondue uses a mix of Comté, Beaufort and Emmental de Savoie – never cheddar, never random “melting cheese.” If you’re curious about the origins of the dish or want to get the full mountain experience, have a look at https://restaurant-alpin.fr – their story around authentic alpine cooking is worth a read (and a drool).
1. Les 110 de Taillevent – Marylebone
If you’re after refined comfort, Les 110 de Taillevent is your stop. The fondue here is smooth, balanced, and incredibly rich – like eating silk that tastes of cheese. It’s not a rustic chalet vibe ; it’s more Parisian chic meets mountain soul. They serve it with sourdough cubes and a small glass of Savoie wine, and trust me, it’s dangerously good. You’ll walk out lighter in wallet but heavier in joy.
2. The Cheese Bar – Camden Market
This place gets it. It’s young, loud, a bit chaotic – but when the fondue lands on your table, everything goes quiet. They use a British twist with local cheeses, but still manage to capture that fondue spirit: bubbling, social, a bit messy. The bread’s toasted just enough, and you can even dunk roasted potatoes if you’re feeling bold. Perfect for a casual night out with friends who don’t mind fighting over the last chunk.
3. La Fromagerie – Highbury or Marylebone
Not a full restaurant, but a hidden gem if you’re into real cheese. Their fondue nights are announced only a few times a year, and seats disappear faster than raclette on a cold night. The cheese mix is spot-on – sharp, nutty, buttery – and you can grab a few mountain wines from the shop next door to recreate it at home. Small, intimate, deliciously French.
4. St Moritz – Soho
London’s oldest Swiss restaurant, and still going strong since the ‘70s. Walking in feels like time travel : wood-panelled walls, red-checked tablecloths, that faint whiff of kirsch in the air. Their classic Swiss fondue may not be strictly “Savoyard,” but it’s close enough to melt your heart. They even do a fondue moitié-moitié – half Gruyère, half Vacherin – which is a whole experience in itself. And yes, you will be tempted to scrape the bottom for the crispy cheese crust. That’s the best part, isn’t it ?
5. The Little Blue Door – Fulham
Okay, not a traditional pick, but hear me out. They host fondue nights during winter that are part dinner, part party. Think communal pots, a fire going, people laughing over spilled wine – it’s messy, warm, and exactly what winter nights in London need. The fondue isn’t textbook Savoyard, but the vibe ? Perfectly alpine at heart.
How to Spot a Good Fondue (Even Before You Order)
Quick tip : check the cheese mix on the menu. If you see Comté, Beaufort, or Emmental – good sign. If it’s “mature cheddar” or “three-cheese blend,” run. Ask if they add white wine or kirsch – they should. And don’t forget the bread : it has to be firm, with crust. Soft bread just falls apart, and nobody likes cheese soup with crumbs.
Final Thoughts
London might not have snowy peaks, but it’s got no shortage of melted magic if you know where to look. Whether you want an elegant night out or a noisy cheese fest with friends, there’s a fondue for every mood. And honestly ? Few things beat sharing a pot of warm, bubbling cheese while the rain taps on the window. That’s as alpine as London gets.
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