Today it’s time for tucking into a meaty feast at Gaucho Covent Garden in the heart of Covent Garden. I’m very partial to a Gaucho Grill, having excitedly visited the very first (and now flagship) premises in London’s Piccadilly shortly after its opening in 1994. I’ve also tucked into mouth-watering steaks riverside, both in Canary Wharf and Richmond. And now I can head to my favourite central London location to enjoy dinner at the latest Gaucho opening.
Gaucho Covent Garden is just a stone’s throw from Covent Garden tube station. Its dramatic decor draws inspiration from the tango theatres of Buenos Aires and its menu reflects the ingredients and flavours of Argentina. It’s comfortable and welcoming and there’s a killer bar in the corner. And a killer cocktail list, which we had to start with. Why wouldn’t you?
We sipped on the warm and potent Honey Punch made with Ron Zacapa 23 rum, two types of Cognac and honey and a refreshing lychee blossom gin, vermouth and lemon combo as we perused the menu. It’s a menu with so many options it needs some time.
What’s on the menu
There’s a lovely array of Argentinian starters to choose from and because we already had our sights firmly on the steaks (I feel like it should be compulsory), we decided to get fishy. This substantial bowl of sauteed prawns comes in beautifully silken sauce of garlic tomato and olive oil and is served with bread for irresistible dipping.
Hamachi (yellowtail) tiradito comes with truffle mayo, yuzu soy pearls, panko crumble. So indulgent, zesty and light at the same time and the freshest of fish. Such a perfect beginning to my Gaucho meal.
Bring on the Steaks
When Gaucho Grills first opened in London it was with a vision of bringing the world’s best steak to London. The beef comes from the Argentinian premium Black Angus cattle breed and each cut is hand-selected to ensure it’s of the highest possible standard. And you can tell.
To help with the decision making, our waitress smilingly presented the steak board at our table. There’s a choice of sirloin, ribeye, rump or fillet and different weights, depending on your appetite. A beautiful sight to behold for meat lovers
To team with our chosen steaks (sirloin and ribeye) we opted for delicious sides in the form of confit mushrooms (possibly the best mushrooms ever) and crispy hand-cut chips, with pepper and bearnaise sauces completing our picture of tastiness. Gaucho steaks are seriously in a league of their own, it’s like you really can taste the love and care put into selecting and grilling them with every bite. And what better to sip alongside steak heaven than a bottle of fabulous Argentinian Malbec. A dream combination if ever there was one.
Here’s an overhead of the incredible steak and sides selection. From chips to salad to vegetables and even mac ‘n’ cheese.
And this is a shot of the stylish interior with its fabulously comfortable seating and atmospherically soft lighting.
Today’s Price Point
There’s an expansive range of tempting cocktails with prices starting from £12.50.
There’s also an impressive wine list with a comprehensive Argentinian selection (as you’d expect) and a great international offering, too. Both white and red wine start from £41 a bottle.
Our starters came to a total of £34 for two. Steaks start from £24.50 depending on the cut and the size selected and you can expect to spend about another £20 on sides and sauces.
Where to Find it
Gaucho Covent Garden is at 8-9 James Street, London, it’s only a minute’s walk from Covent Garden tube station and practically on the edge of the piazza.
