The Brunch – the meal that justifies a cocktail before 12pm with a late serving of eggs or a Sunday Roast. And there is nothing more that Londoners love to do on weekends than brunch.
A perfect Sunday afternoon of indulgence watered with bottomless booze, in arguably one of the world’s best cities to spend Summer. Watch slingbacks get kicked to the corner and empty mimosa glasses strewn across the table. Whilst London may be late to the trend of lavish, champagne-soaked buffets of New York or Hong Kong, we have certainly caught up quickly with an eclectic mix of brunch experiences. We Londoners are spoilt for choice, and here are some of my favourites.
Aqua Kyoto
This is Sunday decadence to the max. From 12 noon until 4pm for £65 per person, ‘Infinity Sundays’ here includes limitless Japanese cuisine from the sushi bar, along with a main course and dessert, all washed down with unlimited Veuve Clicquot champagne. Cheers to that!
A wise addition to your London brunch bucket list with an ultra-slick sophisticated backdrop. Be sure to wear red-soled shoes if you feel so inclined.
Tips: If the weather is on your side, head to the roof terrace for cocktails looking over Regent Street.
Brunch at the Table Cafe
Always crowded and never disappointing with the most homely of atmospheres. Honest, wholesome and utterly satisfying is the only way to describe The Table Café. Situated right next to The Tate Modern, build up an appetite or digest your food post-brunch (whichever order you prefer) and opt for a Full English, the Table Stack or pancakes.
The drinks menu is equally as impressive, with a well-thought out wine list as well as cocktails, local beers and The Table’s famous smoothies.
The Wolseley
Considered by many as London’s best breakfast venue, the mise en scene is truly seductive bringing you breakfast and brunch dining on a grand scale, in a converted Bank building. It is such a place to visit that even London’s acclaimed and rarely restaurant critic A.A. Gill wrote a book about it, Breakfast at The Wolseley.
Tips: Go for the classic egg dishes and a cup of English Breakfast Tea or The Wolseley Fishcake and you will not be disappointed. Gluten free options also available here.
Bourne & Hollingsworth
London’s best party Lords have taken brunch to the next level, exchanging Prohibition bomb shelters for bottomless bellinis. The décor is luxury jumble and rather homely with a touch of Soho House, big open fires, a serene greenhouse and the marble mosaic bar area.
All the best of the British classics from Eggs Benedict to Bubble and Squeak, and Scones with Preserves to the more creative Huevos Benedictos and Crispy Potato Hash.
Tips: Go medium on the bloody mary unless you like it REALLY spicy, and my favourite is the “Huevos Benedictos”
Duck & Waffle
On the 40th floor of London’s Heron Tower, this is perfect if you’re looking for the best ever in London. London skylines combined with a winning menu, this is the stop for Londoners and visitors to London alike. It is genuinely innovative and worthy of all the hype with unsurpassed views.
Photo Credit: Milk & Cookies
This place also makes for perfect pictures for your Instagram feed. For those looking for a gluten-free option, Executive chef Daniel Doherty has created a GF waffle recipe which is served under a Crispy Leg Confit and a Fried Duck Egg.
Tips: The Duck & Waffle (non-GF also available). Also the Dosant, a hybrid of donut and croissant. Booking in advance is essential.
Reform social & grill
For a more quintessential Brunch, sink into red leather banquets encased with retro art and golden engraved wallpaper and while away the afternoon with The Great British Brunch Experience.
All your Sunday favourites, with a class Sunday Roast with beef, lamb or vegetarian options. A meal like this reminds us why we love being British and when you’ve had a chance to digest your Roast, you’ll certainly be going back.
Tips: For big groups, book the Private Dining Room, and be sure to try the cocktail bar as well.
Any Questions or Tips to add?