“The incredible new venue Trocadero’s at Crossbasket is going to be all about the full experience….. the music, the atmosphere, the drinks and dancing, as well as of course the fantastic food.”
Sitting at a breakfast table alongside renowned chef Michel Roux Jnr at Crossbasket Castle, we were in good company with three journalists. Our intention to provide some more information to our readers here. We could clearly hear the excitement in Michel’s voice as he relayed his hopes and well thought out plans for cuisine at High Blantyre’s latest entertainment and restaurant venue.
As construction workers put the finishing touches on the new hotel and restaurant, we were seated in the adjacent Crossbasket Castle dining room during breakfast, part of a small, intimate press contingent invited along to sample the new menu.
Michel who took over Le Gavroche, became a TV personality on MasterChef: The Professionals, and is known for his classic yet modern take on French cuisine.
His warm persona was immediately apparent with bursts of humour and professionalism in the way he talks about food. His enthusiasm for the hospitality industry in general was apparent and we were thrilled to hear about the jobs which have been created for local people of all ages and the opportunities that brings for their careers.
Michel’s dedication to quality food, high standards and commitment to customers could not be clearer. Taking out his phone, he shows us some of the photos there. The camera roll all photos of family and food. A good summary of what matters most in his life. For an hour he talked passionately about food, direct to the point in his replies to questions with lingering responses when ensuring the best Scottish products are sourced and at times giving us an insight into his personal life.
He talked about the journey taken by his team to get to the point where the perfect menu has been created in readiness for doors opening at Trocaderos. We heard about the dishes and food which he can’t wait for customers to try out and on that note, we were served a full Scottish breakfast. Now, we’re not food critics in any shape or form, but the breakfast could not be faulted in any way. The best products, quality, tasty, cooked to perfection and clear plates all round. Simply delicious !
As coffee was served, we heard that the team of chefs will have their work cut out at Crossbasket. Overseeing all aspects of food preparation, not just in the luxury Castle dining room and at Trocaderos, but of course “in room” dining with the venue also being a hotel. It’s a big operation which requires utmost commitment and quality. The customer’s experience overall we’re assured will be highly accessible with “something for everybody”.
As we left Crossbasket back out to beautiful blue skies after a satisfying breakfast, we were much clearer (and a more excited) about what’s coming in March. With thanks to Michel Roux, Crossbasket owners and staff for their kind invite and their gracious hospitality which was much appreciated.
Trocadero’s opens on Sunday 16th March 2025. More information can be found at http://www.crossbasketcastle.com
Photos: Blantyre Telegraph
could you please send me a menu, thankyou
Hi David – there is a sample menu now on the Crossbasket.com website.