Contrary to popular belief Pigalle Green Point is not a restaurant that should only be frequented on very special occasions. It is an entirely suitable location for casual and informal meals that take place during the week with friends, business acquaintances and colleagues for lunch or dinner. The hands-on management and efficient staff are on hand to ensure that all Pigalle guests are well taken care of in a relaxed and comfortable environment, regardless of the time of day.
The stylish, spacious bar is a great place to meet people for brief meetings or for drinks immediately after work, or for pre-dinner drinks. If high chairs are not your scene opt to sit at one of the tub chair and table arrangements nearby if you have paperwork to look at. You will also have the opportunity to order an appetizer, salad or a light meal once the meeting has been concluded or to proceed to a table if you want to sample some delectable seafood or grills which Pigalle is equally famous for.
Regardless of whether you stay or not ask to briefly peruse the menu which will certainly tickle the taste buds and don't forget to cast an eye on the dates for Pigalle's Summer Food and Wine evenings (5 course menu, fine wine and legendary entertainment) out of interest.
The interior is extraordinarily spacious and there are huge, elegant paintings on the wall which are modern and romantic. The enormous chandeliers add an air of sophistication and the layout is perfect for providing enough intimacy and privacy for each table, although one never feels isolated in any one spot.
The tables are beautifully set with white table cloths and the staff are incredibly attentive in an unobtrusive way – appearing when required – but out of sight for the rest of the time. Comfortable seating is provided and time seems to stop at Pigalle – or a least slow down enough to allow one to truly enjoy the time in this exceptional establishment, as well as the experience of dining and being served in a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere. Patrons are dressed in smart or casual clothing – there is no rule at all. One can therefore arrive after work, enjoy a drink and proceed directly to dinner thereafter.
For his appetizer my partner enjoyed the Trinchado which is a Portuguese favorite and an excellent choice. Pan fried melt-in-the-mouth beef cubes were served in a creamy, tangy, lightly spiced sauce which had a hint of chili, some garlic and bay leaves. My Pan Seared fresh and succulent Scallops were placed in three shells with spring onion, risotto and a creamy, light and flowing Hollandaise sauce. Delightfully the shells were served in an elegant long dish, which added to the enjoyment of this excellent starter.
The R280 Pigalle Platter was recommended and it consisted of a combination of fresh, fleshy prawns and langoustines with a delicate texture and flavor of the sea, grilled to perfection in lemon butter and thereafter lightly brushed with a secret garlic marinade. Lemon butter, garlic and a fairly strong peri-peri sauce were served on the side which improved the seafood flavors enormously, as well as some perfectly cooked fries. This dish was a feast for the eyes – an excellent choice indicative of the finest preparation and presentation of seafood.
The Herb Marinated Beef Fillet which I ordered was very tall and pilled high on mash potato rounds and steamed, sautéed spinach. Drizzled over was Foie Gras jus which perfectly complimented the fillet and heightened its flavor. Additionally the unusual mushroom and canpozola sauce transformed this simple fillet into something extraordinarily delicious.
My partner ordered the interesting Cape Velvet Creme Brulee which was served slightly warm in a boat dish. It had a caramelized top layer and was creamy and decadent with a twist – due to the addition of the Cape Velvet as an ingredient. It was ideally suited to being selected as the final course after the Pigalle Platter. The Chocolate Marbled Cheesecake was served cold and it was a generous slice with a scrumptious chocolate base and a light and refreshing center – the perfect combination for someone who loves chocolate.
Following desserts we were seated at a comfortable table near the bar were we sipped cappuccino's while enjoying the sight of people dancing on the glittery stage. The band played laid back cocktail music which was romantic and easy to listen to and the singer sang beautifully. On the same evening there were three events hosted at Pigalle – a 21st, a 40th and a 60th birthday party. This highlights the fact that Pigalle is the ideal destination for any age group and people wore blue jeans and Tuxedos with equal ease.
Whether your reason for visiting Pigalle is for drinks, meetings, light meals, lunches, dinners or special occasions you will be satisfied. Time slows down while you are there and you will be able to enjoy the experience. Don't wait for the next special occasion to come along. Make an appearance and re-discover Pigalle. Soon.