Last Updated on December 26, 2024
Experience the Cosy Charm of Grandma’s French Kitchen at Josette
Classic French dining has a timeless allure that seems to be enjoying a well-deserved revival lately. So, when my ever-discerning neighbour Elise suggested we dine at Josette in Farringdon, I needed little persuasion. With the promise of Parisian flair and a menu steeped in tradition, it felt like the perfect opportunity to indulge in some unapologetic Francophile nostalgia.
This French restaurant comes with a story. Elise, a French wine importer, originally supplied wine to La Petite Ferme – a charming spot in the city whose name translates to “The Little Farm.” Known for its raclette (a true indulgence for cheese lovers), it reopened its doors at the beginning of November as what is now known as Josette. During lockdown, owners François Guerin and Jean-François Lesage (the latter a sommelier) faced the same challenges as everyone else. They adapted by transforming La Petite Ferme into a wine shop, selling fine wines and cheeses to keep their business afloat. During this time they stumbled upon an empty building in Little Venice that was once a restaurant. Elise, familiar with the area, saw its potential, and together, the three hatched a plan: they would invest in and open a small French eatery serving food inspired by the comforting dishes their grandmothers used to make. The result was Paulette, named after one of their grandmothers.
With time on their hands, they poured their energy into making the restaurant a distinctive space, enlisting Jaillon Studio and the talented brand and interior designers Catherine and Béatrice Jaillon to craft its unique aesthetic. After lockdown ended, this little French gem thrived, becoming a beloved local fixture.
Meanwhile, La Petite Ferme continued to serve its loyal customers but faced seasonal challenges – raclettes were popular in winter, less so in summer. This prompted the team to reimagine the space as a sister restaurant to Paulette. November 2024. Enter Josette: a new chapter, brimming with the same passion, tradition, and charm that have become their signature.
We picked perhaps the worst stormy night to visit Josette, braving torrential rain and howling winds to reach its doors. But oh, it was worth the effort. Nestled on Farringdon Road, this cosy and inviting restaurant greets you with a vibrant racing-green façade and a cheerful red-and-white striped awning – a beacon of warmth on a dreary evening.
Step inside, and the charm only multiplies. The décor, again the work of Jaillon Studio, is a delightful patchwork of whimsy: Toile de Jouy wallpaper depicting idyllic rural landscapes sits alongside green polka-dotted walls. Floral cushions and gingham tablecloths mingle with cowhide lampshades and matching seat covers, while net curtains and lace-draped lamps add a touch of vintage allure. Even the floral-patterned carpet manages to match the wallpaper, completing the eclectic vibe. At the back, there’s a snug private area, perfect for groups of 8–10, offering an intimate corner to enjoy the quirky surroundings.
The menu at Josette is everything you’d want from a French restaurant. Think Escargots de Bourgogne, Soupe à l’Oignon, and Blanquette de Lotte. And for those still keen to indulge in classic raclette, fear not – it’s available but must be ordered in advance. We began with a glass of Champagne Foureur Brut Tradition Grand Cru d’Ambonnay – crisp, yeasty notes of brioche, fruity aromas of yellow apple, and a delicate mousse that danced elegantly on the palate. This was paired with a plate of saucisson and cornichons, a quintessentially French combination. The saucisson was rich, salty, and full of depth, perfectly complemented by the tangy crunch of the cornichons.
Jean-François recommended Sylvain Pataille’s Fleur de Pinot Marsannay Rosé 2019 to pair with our meal, joking that he could drink it for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. With such an endorsement, I was more than happy to oblige – and it turned out to be possibly one of the nicest rosés I’ve ever had the pleasure of drinking. An exceptional and unique wine, it offered a savoury nose, vivid raspberry fruit flavours, lovely acidity, and subtle mineral notes, making it a perfect match for the meal.
Moving on to Les Entrées, my Poireaux Vinaigrette was a revelation. The braised leeks, with their delicate charred edges, were cloaked in a sharp yet subtle vinaigrette that brought their sweetness into full focus. It was the kind of dish that turns an often-overlooked vegetable into a star, leaving me wondering why leeks aren’t on every menu.
The Oeufs Cocotte à la Truffe was envy-inducing – baked eggs swaddled in a luscious, velvety sauce – a heady mix of earthy mushrooms, molten cheese, and the unmistakable decadence of truffle.
Next up, a generous portion of Filet de Bœuf with a classic sauce Forestière and a side of golden, crisp frites. The beef was a triumph – irresistibly tender, and packed with deep, meaty flavour. The sauce, a creamy, herbaceous mushroom number, was poured with unapologetic abandon, drenching the dish in indulgent richness. It was the kind of plate that demanded a moment of quiet reverence before diving in.
Across the table, another French classic took centre stage: Jambonette de Lapin Farcie aux Cèpes et Pignons de Pin. This was rabbit leg, elegantly swaddled in smoky bacon, stuffed with earthy ceps and buttery pine nuts, then finished with a delicate cider sauce. It was the kind of dish that speaks softly but delivers boldly.
And finally, driven more by desire than necessity, we shared a Tarte aux Pommes. Thinly sliced apples were arranged meticulously atop a golden, buttery pastry base. It arrived with a dollop of vanilla ice cream, slowly melting into the warm tart, each spoonful a perfect harmony of crispness, creaminess, and caramelisation.
The great thing about Josette is that it feels like a proper night out. It transports you to a space that’s joyfully unusual, unapologetically fun, and brimming with character – while offering great food you’re unlikely to whip up at home. What’s more, it’s not overpriced, which only adds to the enjoyment. I highly recommend a visit; I’m confident you won’t be disappointed.
Josette
102-104 Farringdon Road,
London
EC1R 3EA
020 7837 5293
Looking for an alternative French restaurant? We love Claude Bosi’s Joséphine Bouchon in South Kensingston
