Nestled in the well-heeled neighborhood of Marylebone, Maset Bistro brings the sunny flavors of southern France to London’s dining scene. Located at 40-42 Chiltern Street, this relaxed neighborhood bistro occupies a prime spot in one of London’s most fashionable areas, near the Marble Arch end of Marylebone. The establishment offers all-day dining, serving guests from breakfast through dinner in its inviting space.
Maset’s culinary identity channels the coastal flavors and rhythms of southern France’s Occitanie region. The menu draws inspiration from the French Mediterranean coast, featuring signature dishes like Marseille bouillabaisse, Camargue rice, and Nice pâtes au pistou. These influences extend beyond France to include elements from Italy, Spain, and North Africa, creating a diverse yet cohesive dining experience. Visitors can also enjoy free attractions nearby, making it a perfect dining destination.
Vibrant Mediterranean flavors meet French coastal tradition in a culinary journey that spans borders while remaining authentically southern.
Behind this culinary venture is restaurateur Melody Adams, co-founder of acclaimed Basque establishments Lurra and Donostia. Head chefs Gianluca Gennaro and Alastair Walling execute the seafood-centric menu with precision, emphasizing well-sourced ingredients and authentic preparation methods. The bistro’s interior was designed by Parisian studio Haddou-Dufourcq to create a calm oasis within Chiltern Street’s vibrant atmosphere.
The bistro’s ambiance features clean, creamy white decor that appears intentionally cluttered and mismatched. Solid wood chairs modeled after 1950s French seaside cafés complement the modernized zinc bar, which serves as the heart of the restaurant. The restaurant design was inspired by masets, the traditional stone buildings once used to house vineyard workers in southern France. This design creates a relaxed, convivial atmosphere typical of informal French bistros.
Maset’s menu begins with merenda (small snacks) including bouillabaisse croquettes, saucisson, and beignets de brandade (saltcod fritters) served with aioli. Main courses showcase seafood prominently, featuring dishes like whole monkfish tail marinated in preserved lemons and seabass crudo with yuzu and fennel. Sides include charred green beans with crispy capers and Camargue rice with olives, red pepper, and herbs.
The drink selection focuses on European wines, primarily French varieties from small vineyards, available by the glass or bottle. Each wine is carefully selected to enhance culinary stories through thoughtful pairings with the Mediterranean-inspired dishes. Dessert options include fig tart with crème fraiche and thyme, and profiteroles with chocolate and chestnut cream.
Mediterranean-inspired cocktails and bar snacks are available throughout the afternoon, completing the authentic French bistro experience in London.
