Victoria and Albert's Chef's table?

[Seewhatimesdone]

I have a surprise reservation at Victoria and Albert's for my mom's birthday and I was wondering whether or not it's worth it to do the chef's table. I've never been to V & A before so I don't really have a preference. It just sounded really cool to be able to watch the chefs at work. I may not even be able to arrange it at this time but I thought I might give it a try if it's worth it. Any suggestions?

 

[VrBchJ]

The dining room itself is so beautiful. If this is your first time at Victoria and Albert I would suggest the dining room this time and the Chef's Table the next time. And if you have the DDE you will get the 20% discount in the main dining room but not at the Chef's Table. It will be a very special evening with your Mother no matter what you decide.

 

[oybolshoi]

This is a personal preference of mine, but I really think that your first meal at V&A is best in the main dining room. You will dine in a very hushed, opulent setting with a harpist playing in the background.

The CT, by contrast, is in the kitchen. It's hot and noisy and while it's fascinating and absolutely delicious, it's not like dining in the restaurant proper.

Neither way is wrong, but this is how my hubby and I prefer to look at it. We did the dining room in 2006 and nabbed the CT in 2007 ... we're going back to the dining room next month. Can't wait!

 

[zurgswife]

But like you mentioned the chances of the table being open are slim and none. You can always call though.

 

[Cheshire Figment]

The CT is one reservation per day. Most people, once they get the reservation, will not give it up. And there tends to be a waiting list also.

 

[hmillerbarilla]

It took 2 of us calling for DAYS at 6:00 a.m. (our time) to get the CT. My sister & I booked it for our parents celebrating their anniversary. It is a hard ressie to get!

I hope they like it! They haven't been to the main dining room before, so I hope it is OK still.

I can't wait to hear all about it.

 

[Uncleromulus]

I agree that your best bet is to do the main dining room first. You'll get all the ambiance of a truly fine restaurant.

 

[SarahInMN]

But like you mentioned the chances of the table being open are slim and none. You can always call though.

If you want the chef's table, get regular dining room reservations and try for the Chef's table. We are getting married at the GF in January. We decided we would settle for the main dining room but that we wanted to try for the Chef's table (we thought we had a snowball's chance).

We got it on the first try. My fiance, both of his parents, and I got up at 545am our time (645 FL time) at the 180 day mark, and started dialling. I got through first, blurted out (based on advice from this board) "chef's table, January 8th," and we were the lucky caller.

Plus there is a waiting list just in case people do actually cancel.

I would try for the Chefs table if you think your mom would like it.