Rochelle Bar & Canteen
The Mall, St. James’s, SW1Y 5AH
It’s hard to think of a way Shoreditch’s much-loved Rochelle Canteen could be improved upon. But installing a new branch in the heart of the ICA? That’s got to come close. The iconic cultural institution has found a worthy match with Margot Henderson and Melanie Arnold in the kitchen.
Chucs Serpentine
Serpentine Sackler Gallery, West Carriage Drive, W2 2AR
There’s a lot to take in at Hyde Park. Soak up Zaha Hadid’s inspiring architecture, drop by the Pavilion and catch Christo’s Mastaba, then head to Chucs Serpentine for some well deserved R&R. Don’t forget – this is the only Chucs with a takeaway menu: panini, pizzettes and tiramisu can all be eaten outside.
Spring at Somerset House
Somerset House, Lancaster Place, WC2R 1LA
Skye Gyngell’s Spring isn’t new, but it’s still one of the most talked-about restaurants in London. Head to the restored 19th-century dining room at the heart of Somerset House for Skye’s daily changing, seasonal-focused menus, or try the pre-theatre Scratch Menu, championing leftover produce.
The Whitechapel Refectory
77-82 Whitechapel High Street, E1 7QX
Luke Wilson and Cameron Emirali (of chef-favourite 10 Greek Street and 8 Hoxton Square) run The Whitechapel Refectory as a café by day, wine bar by night. We’re not usually ones for cake but here it’s extremely good – and the menu as a whole is the right side of elevated comfort food. If you’ve got the day off, make time for lunch here too.
Bryn Williams at Somerset House
Somerset House, WC2R 0RN
Bryn Williams’ eponymous restaurant is the second you’ll find within the grounds of Somerset House – the arts centre certainly packs in the culinary draw. Go find Bryn if you’re with a vegetarian crew – the Welsh chef is championing vegetables and British cuisine in the south wing, but there’s still meat and fish on the menu, meaning dinnertime can still be a crowd pleaser.
Lifestyle: Lists
Top 5: Cuisine + Culture
Art and eats = the perfect day out
