Whether you’re an avocado aficionado or have a penchant for pancakes, we’ve rounded up some of the best places to brunch in town.
Words Charlotte Johnstone
The Ivy Chelsea Garden, Chelsea
With more foliage than a Christian Lacroix print, The Ivy Chelsea Garden is one of the prettiest ‘botanical’ brunch spots in London. It’s a new addition to the Chelsea scene as opposed to its sister The Ivy in Covent Garden which opened in 1917. The menu created by executive chef Sean Burbidge combines timeless classics with a modern twist. Come here for an extensive three-course brunch under the canopy.
The Botanist, Chelsea
In the heart of Sloane Square, The Botanist has an excellent menu for those seeking a bit more than a poached egg. The stylish brasserie offers firm faves like eggs Royale to something a little different such as soft shell crab ‘Benedict’ with jalapeño.
Megan’s, Kings Road
With seven south west London locations, Megan’s is making a name for itself as a cosy destination with fantastic food. With a focus on Mediterranean cuisine, brunch has a variety of healthy and hearty dishes fit for any season.
Muriel’s Kitchen, Kensington
Family-inspired recipes have been handed down from generation to generation in this homely kitchen. The owners wanted to create a familiar sense of space, so designed Muriel’s Kitchen around the ethos that kitchens are the heart of every home. From homemade cakes and pastries and British classics, to signature dishes and healthy assortments, Muriel’s Kitchen is not to be missed.
Balhans Soho Society, Kensington
Balans Soho Society brings the bohemian spirit to London where normal rules don’t apply. It even has a philosophical mantra of ‘too much of a good thing is a good thing, the best plan is no plan and the pursuit of pleasure is a noble one’. So it’s no surprise that the restaurant is a firm go-to for a mate date over smashed avo with a twist. When your High Society Eggs Benedict comes with lobster, you start to see why.
No. 11 Pimlico Road, Belgravia
Quirky gastropub No. 11 Pimlico Road combines independent creativity with rustic design. Wash it down in style with an elderflower and Earl Grey fizz. Blueberry ricotta pancakes with maple creme fraiche and syrup? It would be rude not to.
Manuka Kitchen, Fulham
Urban design meets creative fine dining at this chic bistro in the heart of Fulham. With a menu flecked with honey, it boasts Manuka honey cured salmon royal and french toast with bacon and banana topped with spiced honey. A great way to start a buzzy day.
Hally’s, Fulham
We love a good bottomless brunch at the weekend. Who wouldn’t want their glass of prosecco topped up while they’re digging into their pancakes? Feast on a delectable menu focused on good quality Californian-inspired cooking in a setting that resembles a beach hut.
Granger & Co., Notting Hill
Destined to beat off a hangover with more antioxidants than you can shake a coconut branch at, Granger & Co. have a fantastic range of juices and smoothies to accompany your brunch date. Choose healthy items such as Granger’s Greens with silver beet, green apple, cucumber, ginger, chia and coconut water. That’s more fruit, veg and herbs than Notting Hill’s Farmers’ Market on a Saturday.
Bluebird, Chelsea
Executive head chef Liam Smith-Laing has created an extensive three-course weekend brunch menu. In a mark to move from the usual breakfast-style dishes, it steps towards formal lunch-type offerings. But it’s not just about the food here. With their own cinema, shop and relationship with the V&A, it’s one of the best brunch spots in town – and so much more.
