Cassoulet of foie gras, cèpes, butternut squash and spinach at Le Bouchon Breton
Photo: courtesy of the restaurant
The season of gastronomic blowouts begins. East it's foie gras, West it's turducken. Kilburn gastropub Paradise by Way of Kensal Green has introduced its version of the formidable turducken – a distinctly medieval-sounding dish in which a duck is stuffed with a pheasant that's been stuffed with a partridge – to its "Host Your Own Roast" menu. It's served with duck-fat roasted potatoes and all the trimmings, and is carved at your table by chef Tim Payne (£75 total to share between five people; available through Christmas, though allow 48 hours notice; more details here or call 020-8969-0098).
Richer yet are the seasonal foie gras specials at Shoreditch's Le Bouchon Breton starting November 1. Matched with optional wines, dishes include a cassoulet of foie gras, cèpes, butternut squash and spinach, teamed with Qupe Viognier/Chardonnay, Bien Nacido Cuvee 2007, coming in at £29 total for both. Entrees average about £15. Book here or call 020-7377-1839.
– Roger Clarke