There’s something rather cheeky about walking into Côte Brasserie, ordering a plate of French cooking fit for Paris itself, and handing over just a tenner. But that’s exactly what’s on offer, provided you whisper the magic words: “I’m an icon.”
From Monday to Friday, the French-inspired chain is rolling out one of its most iconic dishes each day for only £10. The lineup includes heavyweight brasserie favourites like Steak Frites, Salmon Béarnaise, Confit Pork Belly, Beef Bourguignon, and Moules Frites — the kind of dishes that usually cost closer to twenty quid, and taste like they should cost more.
The brains behind this clever culinary sleight of hand is Côte Brasserie’s Executive Chef, Steve Allen. If the name rings a bell, it’s because Allen has spent his career in some of the world’s most intimidating kitchens, including Restaurant Gordon Ramsay, Pétrus, and Claridge’s, where he rose to Executive Chef. He’s now applying his Michelin-trained touch to Côte’s everyday dining.
“At Côte, we believe that great food should be for everyone,” Allen said. “These dishes are French classics, beloved the world over, and we wanted to make them available at a price that makes them irresistible. Quality is always at the heart of what we do, but so is generosity. This menu is about celebrating the pleasure of eating well, together, every day of the week.”
And he isn’t kidding. Côte’s butchery team ages its steaks for 30 days before hand-cutting them in-house. Every plate is built on responsibly sourced meat, carefully selected seasonal produce, and the sort of culinary details that turn humble comfort food into something a little bit grander. Even vegans get a look-in, with a fragrant Tagine on offer every day of the week.
The daily rotation means regulars have a reason to keep coming back — Monday kicks off with the quintessential Steak Frites (usually £17.50), Tuesday brings Salmon Béarnaise (£19.50), Wednesday serves up Confit Pork Belly (£19.50), Thursday is the rich, slow-cooked Beef Bourguignon (£21.95), and Friday rounds things out with Moules Frites (£16.50). That vegan Tagine, by the way, is typically £15.95.
It’s an audacious move in an industry where prices are climbing faster than the Eiffel Tower, and yet Côte Brasserie insists this is about staying true to its roots: generous French cooking, made accessible. Think hearty, honest plates, the kind that make you want to linger a little longer at the table.
For diners, the toughest part may be remembering the secret password. Say it with confidence, though, and you’ll unlock one of the best dining deals in town — a slice of France for £10, no strings attached.
*prices from and may vary
Dining and Cooking