French Army Knives contain no tweezers or scissors: just a fork, and nine corkscrews.
They are a testament to both the ingenuity of the French and their passion for food and wine (though perhaps less so to their army’s commitment in battle).
Recently seen to demonstrate both of these fine qualities (the passion and ingenuity ones) was the GM of Jose Pizarro’s two eponymous restaurants, Monsieur Hervé Durochat. Keen to pursue his dream of opening an authentic French bistro, the friendliest man in hospitality went ahead and did just that – ingeniously opening the teeny-tiny Casse-Croûte on Bermondsey Street, directly opposite José.
It’s instantly become one of the smallest restaurants in London.
And one of the cutest.
From the cracked wooden sign above the door; the red leather banquettes; the old black and white photos of the proprietors’ families and the ornately-carved bar, where you can perch for drinks; to the French radio crackling in the background and the intimate, familial ambience… it feels like it’s been around for years.
Serving an excellent selection of French wines (courtesy of Hervé’s business partner, sommelier Alex Bonnefoy), plus charcuterie and a daily changing menu of classic French dishes – all written on the blackboard, photographed and personably tweeted to the world each morning, “Bonjour! Votre menu aujourd’hui…” – Casse-Croûte’s the sort of charming, well-priced and intimate date spot that regrettably never takes reservations…
Only this one actually does.
NOTE: Casse-Croûte is open now for breakfast, lunch and dinner. You can find out more, or book, via their website HERE.
Casse-Croûte | 109 Bermondsey Street, SE1 3XB
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