Reviews of Authentique - Epicerie & Bar

I've lived for quite a few years in France and this lovely wine bar does its culinary heritage more than justice. A very wide range of wines and other typical French products (cheeses, dried sausages) make for a very authentic experience - it felt just like stepping into a corner of France! The service was great, Amaury and his team are very welcoming. Will definitely come back! Merci beaucoup!

Went for the Loire Valley dinner. 5 amazing dishes, which blew my pallet away, paired with 6 gorgeous wines, each with their own flavour and with the amazing staff describing in detail why it was chosen and what to expect. The perfect experience to develop an understanding of the Loire valley wines. Will definitely return for another tasting dinner, or just for the charcuterie/cheese spreads they offer.

Dined here with a friend last night for first time: 5/5 each for ambience, friendly and professional service. 6/5 for the food, and for the wine selection, and the knowledge and attention from Vincent (FoH). We each had the Sea Bass - cooked to perfection. Will most definitely return. Delightful!

L'Authentique is a French oasis in the heart of Tufnell Park, north of Kentish Town. This is the second time my friends and I come here for their 5 course dinners which focus on a different French region each time. This time it was Rhône (Lyon's region) and it was a delicious experience complemented with 6 glasses of wine (one for each course plus one when you sit down as an aperitif). For each dish and wine the staff explain their origins and give a bit of history of the wine yard. This is £69 per person and it's oh so worth it and good value for money. Despite its lovely epicerie/cafe appearance, l'Authentique delivers a 5-star dinner that is luxurious and pampering. We have already booked the Christmas one and I urge you to quickly do the same to not miss out!

UPDATE MAY 2021 THE ETA JAMES CLASSIC SPRINGS TO MIND.... ** At Last ** Their garden was open this Tuesday lunchtime. Braving the unhelpful weather, I reclined in comfort in the covered area. Made all the more relaxing with the assistance of a very nice Mersault and their fabulous charcouterie (with cheese). Thank goodness the duck pate was still a staple addition. Rough, earthy and mouth watering with their warm, crunching baguette and fine, unsalted butter. Make no mistake, I am absolutely NOT a food expert. But, I know what I like and there is absolute logic in the fact that the most special items invariably cost a little more because of their popularity. Demand begats supply and Prix N'est-ce pas? BE WARNED - when they are allowed to fully reopen, you will probably find that they will become full quickly. Obviously it's the food and wine. But, it's also the atmosphere, the relaxing courteous, friendly staff who make you think you are always welcome. Because, the truth is.... You are. March 2019 EXPANDED MENU - OPEN FOR LUNCH IF you are like me and you "know what you like" but are not an expert when it comes to who the wine's great-great grandfather was or which particular type of soil the grape sidled up to..... then you may appreciate the subtle, accurate and helpful staff here. They listen. You can say "i like this and it tasted like that but with more 'thingy'" and these knowledgeable people will seek to come with an equivalent BUT nicer, tastier, more interesting and delicately delicious. Such that, within a short space of time, you feel welcomed and content. HOWEVER, If you know your Mersault or Gevrey Chambertin....... then they are happy to oblige. They DON'T look down upon you (a common mistake of many an expert) they are in the business of returning, satisfied clientele who will recommend and spread the word. Good restaurateurs (or business owners - same thing) know that gaining customers trust and rapport makes for a long term happy relationship. "Athentique" has learned this lesson well. They have opened a garden at the back. They have hot food as well as the fabulous charcuterie and cheese boards. TODAY I tried the goat. With charred leeks on top and "creme fresh" style goat curd in the side. A wonderful combination of textures and tastes. The goat was tender and full of flavour. So much more tasty than lamb. The curd (just a smear added to each forkful) melted over the meat and blended perfectly. A glass of 2015 Mersault and the desert or rhubarb with bergamot merengue enabled my tastebuds to be interested. The rhubarb was not softened to a syrup (as is often the case). Perhaps it would have been better for me if it had been a little more tart to taste. Each to his/her own. I have visited a number of times. I like the layout. Les (thursday night) jazz cool. I feel like a valued customer. It is very easy to return. It's getting busy in the evenings. Closed all day Mondays. PS - not just a restaurant/bar - they have many delicious items (jams, wines, cognacs. French pastries, cheeses) available for purchase. Apricot jam on a waffle anyone?