Forum Topic

Farewell Le Vacherin

Very sorry to see that it has closed. I had been going since its very early days and it was always very high quality and surprisingly good value. Ashamed to say I haven't been for several years due to my beloved thinking that the rich food might be too fattening for me and general belt tightening which has reduced the number of times we eat out. Use it or lose it comes into play once again.

Mark Evans ● 31d12 Comments

'Le Vacherin's premises used to be a Co-Op grocery storewith the old 88 bus terminating outside' Oh Jim! I remember it well, one half was the grocery part - the other the butchers - and a lady sitting in a kiosk that took the money. I was always given a piece of cheese when my Mum was shopping there, something I love to this day, no sweet tooth, but then there was rationing that lasted into the 50s while I was still vey young. I was christened and confirmed in St. Albans Church almost opposite and my sister got married there too. Hardly recognise it now.

Vanessa Smith ● 4h

From the moment the new management took over, Vacherin became unwelcoming.Is anyone interested in opening a new restaurant on this site? Vacherin was so good when it opened. Is Malcolm John still in the business?

Robin Knight ● 12h

Since Donna, the former partner of Michelin-rated chef Malcolm John, took over the restaurant as part of their divorce settlement, the business has struggled to survive. Many customers, neighbours, and members of the local community reported experiencing poor treatment and a lack of professionalism from the new owner and some staff.Following significant financial difficulties, including liquidation and insolvency proceedings, the restaurant has been forced to close its doors. The business reportedly accumulated substantial debts, leaving suppliers unpaid and facing outstanding tax liabilities. It is also understood that Donna is now selling the family home, which is listed on Zoopla, as she faces the consequences of the financial situation.

Maya ● 11d

I know Danny has owned the property and Acton Green Timbers

Arnie Devi ● 21d

Le Vacherin's premises used to be a Co-Op grocery storewith the old 88 bus terminating outside

Jim Lawes ● 21d

Thank goodness a comment set in reality, the new owners that took on the franchise from a settlement, were not friendly & were toxic to the immediate local community. Chiswick is saturated with foodie joints & time has moved on the fantastic Duke of Sussex huge refurbishement invites live bands & football, as sense of what the Duke originally was (except the 70's strippers!)& yummy food a sense of community is much needed as part of the conservation area not a high pressure resturant hell bent on group-on profits. The food markets on the weekend has been a fabulous contribution to recent years. Also I've just heard ON the grapevine the new owners (the ex) [NOT Malcolm john the real Michelin star holder] had done a 'runner! Allegedly. The area would benefit a balance of a boutique style business, a wellness centre, a community space, a bookshop, gallery, bookies (it once was!) something with office hours, anything but another industrial style restaurant. It's all change on Acton Green the church has recieved a huge legacy donation so will finally knock down the prefab for a community cafe space although importantly i don't recommend the above section should be living quarters it's inappropriate in common land, we don't wish to set a precedent. Well that's my 2 bobs worth.

Arnie Devi ● 21d

We recently made our first visit to Sam's Waterside Brasserie in Brentford. I cannot speak too highly off the food presentation and the service. Left the car at home and caught the train from Chiswick Station. West Chiswick is certainly coming on in leaps and bounds. Not sure that I would ever darken the doors of a wine bar called 'Plonkers' but who knows?

Sam Hearn ● 24d

I am also very sorry to hear of this closure.  So many local restaurants have fallen recently including of course the supreme Silver Birch.  As Peter mentioned above Ma Cusine, a few minutes from Kew Station, offers proper French cookery for those who don’t want to pay La Trompette prices.  Worth a visit.

Alastair Banton ● 26d

Not surprised. Ever since the original owners sold out, the new owner was unwelcoming. We stopped going after she demanded a £50 deposit to make a reservation. Returned last year for lunch one day - just four people in the restaurant. Do hope a friendly local owner buys the place and revives it. Any chance? Maybe Sam?

Robin Knight ● 26d

Very sad to read this news - we'd go as a family at least a couple of times a year, which probably doesn't sound a lot, but we did see it as special occasion venue, despite being good value for what you got and the level of service, etc. They also did one of the best Sunday roasts in the area, provided you liked beef!

Mark Edwards ● 30d

Great food, brilliant service. We’d been going three/four times a year and it had become our Christmas Day lunch go-to. Very sad to see it close its doors and hope the team quickly find new jobs.

Gordon McDonald ● 30d

Ma Cuisine by Kew Station is traditional French.

Peter Evans ● 30d

I was going to ring them this week to book for the 8th too! Absolutely gutted as have been going  two/three times a year for ages and was never disappointed. I wonder if the offers have had an effect on their profits/running costs? Any tips for a French restaurant in west London now?

Peter King ● 31d