Introducing a touch of Alpine chic to the metropolis of London is The White Haus. Think cheese fondue, schnitzels and sauerkraut served in a timber clad interior with vintage ski lift seating, upholstered in red and white plaid, scattered with sheepskin throws, spread across three floors.
The menu takes inspiration from the heart of the Alps spanning Switzerland, Germany, Austria and France and is served throughout the day from Executive Chef Jamie Polito and Head Chef Dan Davies. On our visit my guests and I made our way through a cheese fondue accompanied by pickled onions, truffle fries and a bread basket; however, a range of other mains are also available. From bites such as pretzels with horseradish crème fraîche, beetroot hummus with chèvre, mint, hazelnut dukkah to pitta bread and ham hock and taleggio cheese croquettes with grain mustard mayonnaise. There are also larger plates including the classic chicken schnitzel Holstein with fried egg and anchovies or a sharing veggie board of baked Édel de Cléron vacherin, pickles and potatoes.
This Alpine inspired eatery also throws its doors open for breakfast. Start your day with a visit here and you can expect ham hock and Emmental croque monsieurs, warm pains au chocolat or the ‘Haus Breakfast’ – a take on the English full works with Bavarian sausage, smoked streaky bacon, grilled tomato, potato rosti and fried eggs. There’s also a sesame yoghurt with fresh fruit and chia honey sitting alongside freshly squeezed juices and smoothies such as apple, kiwi and spinach.
At the weekend The White Haus welcomes in the popular brunch scene. From 10am to 4pm and for £45 per person, brunch guests can pretend they’re in full après ski mode with unlimited prosecco and Bloody Marys alongside pastries and pretzels followed by two dishes from the ‘brunch board’ laden with dishes served canapé-style to add to the party vibe. Choices include Haus-style baked eggs, potato rosti with halloumi and tomato, kedgeree risotto balls, avocado crostini with a soft-boiled egg and the indulgent cheese fondue pot.
This après ski concept leads me onto The White Haus’ ‘Bière, Bubbles & Bevvies’ drinks list. At the Swiss bar, 1936 Bière is served whilst the wine list has been curated by master of wine John Clevely and features a wide European selection. This includes a dry white Cantine Volpi Gavi Di Gavi, delicate Château de Fonscolombe ‘Gold Label’ rosé and elegant Louis Latour Valmoissine Pinot Noir. A selection of sparkling wines and magnums are also available for special occasions.
Address: 17 Farringdon Street, London, EC4A 4AB, thewhitehaus.co.uk
