This is something of a departure for this high-end steak restaurant. Gaucho in Richmond (and Hampstead) are now offering breakfast, and it’s not all meat.
Richmond is classy and popular with those who appreciate its riverside. The shops attract discerning visitors but there are, surprisingly, very few worthy restaurants. Gaucho has long had a loyal following as it stands out from the gastronomic crowd.
The location along Richmond’s beautiful towpath makes Gaucho easy to see from Richmond Bridge. Just look for perhaps the biggest tree by the Thames and one will spy Gaucho just beneath. It’s a low-slung grey building, and at this time of year there is a substantial terrace so no need to miss a moment of our scarce sunshine.
This is the most marvellous location for breakfast at weekends, and it’s hoped by this local resident to become an all-week-long morning option. That towpath is populated by joggers, older and slower walkers, mums wrangling toddlers, dads overseeing first bike rides. It’s a buzzy atmosphere, and so lots of hungry footfall.
A nice sit down to rest the paws, with a doggy-bowl of water
We chose to sit inside for our breakfast, although there were guests outside enjoying a bite along with their canine companions, who were just relieved to have a nice sit down to rest the paws, with a doggy-bowl of water. Yes, 4-legged diners are also considered at Gaucho. Inside we found a cosy and bright corner to people-watch in fine style.
Dulce De Leche Peanut Butter is Gaucho’s famous sweet nutty spread, and it arrived with a couple of warm croissants. They should sell this stuff by the jar (large jar). It’s sweet and rich and full of peanut flavour. If you are after a quick cuppa and a light bite then this breakfast might have your name on it.
But it’s not only cups of tea and coffee on hand. There is the Gaucho Bloody Mary made with Stolichnaya Gold Vodka, tomato juice, chimichurri, citrus and a hit of spicy Tabasco. It’s a long and savoury drink which is a classic breakfast libation – a Saturday morning treat.
My companion chose Poached Eggs with Smashed Avocado served on Toasted Sourdough with a fresh garnish of delicate coriander cress. There was a hint of spice to add balance. This was a substantial plate but quite a healthy one.
A delicious departure and will likely become a signature breakfast
Gaucho has a unique take on a traditional breakfast item. Eggs Benedict is elevated above the herd by the addition of a layer of Salt Beef with horseradish, and topped by poached eggs and tangy hollandaise. There are plenty of restaurants presenting Eggs Beni but this is a delicious departure and will likely become a signature breakfast here.
Gaucho has a fine reputation for quality steaks for dinner and lunch, but this Richmond branch could soon become a destination for breakfast, too – with just a little meat and a lot of flair.
Gaucho Richmond
The Towpath
Richmond Riverside
Richmond
TW10 6UJ
Breakfast: 9am – 11.15am on Saturday and Sunday
Phone: 020 8948 4030
Read my review of Gaucho in Richmond for Dinner here
Restaurant review by Chrissie Walker © 2018