Renowned gourmet food creator Charlie Bigham has stood by his newly launched premium meal selection priced at up to £30, despite criticism comparing one dish to a steak bake.
Bigham’s Brasserie range, now available at Waitrose, promises top-tier restaurant-quality cuisine for home dining, minus the ambiance and service, but with the added chore of washing up.
Though a review likened the duck confit, priced at £17 for two, to a “gloopy brown puddle” resembling Bovril and the £29.95 beef wellington to a steak bake, Bigham, in an interview with the Mirror, refuted these claims, emphasizing his disagreement.
Defending the range’s pricing, Bigham stated, “I believe it offers exceptional value, but ultimately, consumers will be the judge. While I understand concerns about the cost, I prioritize value over price.” He highlighted the beef fillet in the priciest dish, the beef wellington at £30 for two, as a high-quality ingredient, justifying the price point.
Comparisons may arise with supermarket own-label premium ready meals, although Bigham disputes this classification, asserting a more meticulous, chef-like approach in their preparation. Bigham targets individuals dining out less due to cost concerns, aiming to provide a restaurant experience at home.
Addressing concerns of potentially burdening struggling restaurants, Bigham expressed respect for the hospitality sector, emphasizing the need to cater to consumer preferences. With consumers seeking dining-out experiences at home, Bigham aims to fulfill this demand with his premium range.
In a taste test comparing Bigham’s £30 beef wellington to Greggs’ £2.10 steak bake, the verdict favored Greggs for its affordability. While Bigham’s version displayed appealing aesthetics and aroma, the beef quantity fell short, leaving an excess of pastry and mushroom mix.
In conclusion, the Bigham meal, at £15 per person, was deemed decent but fell below restaurant standards, leading to disappointment among consumers. The verdict suggests that Bigham may have missed the mark with this particular offering.