Clarette, Marylebone: French wine bar in a townhouse setting

What it is

Clarette is a French wine bar and restaurant on Blandford Street in Marylebone, aimed at diners who care as much about the bottle list as the menu. Opened in 2017, it sits in the middle of a district known for townhouse architecture, boutique retail, and well-heeled dining rooms. The venue is not a sightseeing stop; it is a hospitality space with a clear wine-house identity, shaped by French influence and a strong Bordeaux connection.

Setting and atmosphere

The building has Tudor or mock-Tudor character outside, while the interior leans Art Deco and polished rather than rustic. The venue spreads across multiple floors, with a ground-floor wine bar, a first-floor dining room, and a second-floor private dining space; there is also mention of an al fresco terrace. In practice, the experience feels compact, intimate, and carefully arranged. It suits conversation, long lunches, and evening meals more than loud group drinking. The street setting is urban and central, with little sense of open space, but the townhouse format gives the place a distinct identity in a part of London where many restaurants feel interchangeable.

How a visit unfolds

Most visitors arrive for lunch, dinner, drinks, or a wine tasting, and the rhythm is usually seated and deliberate. You are likely to start with a glass or flight, then move into a French-influenced meal or sharing plates chosen to match the wine list. The service style is geared toward people who want guidance on pairings, premium bottles, or a longer celebratory meal. Private dining is part of the offer, so the venue can feel more formal than a neighbourhood bistro, especially in the evening. It is a good fit for couples, small groups, business meals, and wine-focused visitors who want a controlled, polished setting rather than a quick meal.

Practical expectations

Clarette sits in central London, so it is easy to reach by Tube or rail, with Baker Street and Marylebone the most practical nearby stations. Walking from much of Marylebone or the West End is realistic, and a short taxi ride works well from Bond Street or Oxford Circus. Driving is not a sensible default because parking is limited and expensive. The venue is indoors and works year-round, with weather mainly affecting the short walk from transport links or any terrace use. Expect mid-range to premium spending, especially if you order wine flights or higher-end bottles. The strongest appeal is the combination of townhouse character, French wine focus, and a dining room that feels made for lingering rather than turning tables quickly.