Otto's French Restaurant: A Theatrical French Dining Experience in London

Nestled on Gray's Inn Road between Holborn and King's Cross, Otto's French Restaurant offers a captivating journey into traditional French gastronomy that's both theatrical and deeply authentic. Founded by Otto Albert Tepasse, this establishment has earned a reputation as one of London's most distinctive dining destinations.

A Culinary Theatre Like No Other

What sets Otto's apart is its commitment to tableside spectacle and classical French techniques rarely seen in modern restaurants. The restaurant is home to antique silver duck and lobster presses - centuries-old contraptions that extract rich, flavorful juices from poultry and crustacean carcasses to create sauces of extraordinary depth and complexity.

The signature Canard à la Presse (£200 for two) and Homard à la Presse (£220 per person) must be ordered in advance and involve multiple courses of theatrical preparation. Diners might even don Viking helmets while participating in the pressing process - just one example of the restaurant's blend of serious gastronomy and playful hospitality.

Beyond the Press

Even without ordering the pressed specialties, Otto's delivers exceptional French classics. The steak tartare - prepared tableside with meticulous attention to detail - has been described by critic Jay Rayner as "simply the best steak tartare I have ever tried." Other standouts include cheese soufflé, escargot, and a range of dishes featuring foie gras and sweetbreads.

Desserts maintain the theatrical tradition with Crêpes Suzette flambéed tableside and Grand Marnier soufflés that provide a fitting finale to an indulgent meal.

Atmosphere and Service

The eclectic dining room, with its mix of pop art, velvet banquettes, and classical elements, creates an intimate, eccentric atmosphere that transports diners away from the bustle of London. Service, led by Otto himself, strikes a perfect balance between formal expertise and warm hospitality.

The wine list is extensive and thoughtfully curated, featuring prestigious French vintages alongside more accessible options, all priced with a transparent cost-plus approach that wine enthusiasts appreciate.

A Final Note

Otto's isn't merely a restaurant; it's a preservation of culinary traditions that have largely disappeared from the modern dining scene. It offers not just a meal but a memorable experience that celebrates the theatrical possibilities of French gastronomy. While certainly an investment (expect to spend £100+ per person without the pressed specialties), Otto's provides a dining adventure unlike any other in London.