Cuisine: Modern European
Price: £££
Overall: 4/5
Lunch is even more appreciated when paired with remarkable panoramic views of the city. I decided to let the food and view speak for themselves with a visit to Darwin Brasserie on the 36th floor of London’s distinctive Sky Garden building.
This sky-scraping greenhouse’s superb views over the Thames and London’s skyline can be enjoyed before, during and after dining.
Darwin Brasserie is London’s highest rooftop brasserie and offers an all-day dining menu inspired mostly by classic, seasonal British dishes with a contemporary twist in a relaxed yet energetic atmosphere.
Entrance to Sky Garden is akin to airport security – luggage screened, but thankfully you do not have to take your shoes off! Visitors then take the lift to the 36th floor.
Décor/atmosphere
The décor at Darwin Brasserie is stylish yet simple with a touch of greenery, continuing the garden theme. The staff are welcoming, relaxed and overdressing not necessary to feel comfortable in the surroundings.
My window-side table was perfectly placed with views out across the Sky Garden towards the Shard.
The food
The kitchen offers a variety of simple, but appealing seasonal dishes, ranging from meat to vegan with a good range of wines, champagnes and innovative cocktails.
Dining from the à la carte menu from the selection of starters I opted for the Cheltenham Beetroot with blackberry dressing and cashew hummus. This was the stand out dish for me – aesthetically pleasing and tasted delicious. Cashew nuts providing a crunchy contrast in texture.
For my main, I went for the roasted sea bream with baby potatoes, tender stem broccoli, chilli and anchovy dressing and black olive crumb.
The fish – tasty, golden and crispy and the dusting of black olive crumb adding an interesting salty taste. The creamy anchovy dressing was a little bland but added moisture to the dish.
For dessert, I tried an old fashioned Eton Mess with chantilly cream. You can’t go wrong with this, and they didn’t. It was lovely and light with deliciously sticky meringues and the strawberries a taste of British summertime.
All portions were of adequate size to be comfortable after three dishes and served with the right amount of time between courses.
Products appeared fresh, dishes made with care and reasonably well presented. The restaurant also caters for all tastes by providing a large selection of wines. I opted for a glass of the house rose, a Campuget which was overpriced for what it was.
Service
Service was good. My newly appointed waitress, Flora, blossomed, in her new role, was friendly and enthusiastic.
Price
The starters at Darwin Brasserie cost between £10 – £14, with main courses ranging from £14 – 39, depending on whether you go for a vegetarian or meat dish. The dessert menu ranged from between £7 – £12. My bill totalled £54.20.
Overall
Darwin provides a unique and enjoyable dining experience. Come on, we are here for dining with a view, so it’s expected to come at a cost, but it wasn’t over the odds. Each dish I tried was flavoursome and presented well. Also, the friendly nature of the staff and the splendid vista make Darwin an enjoyable lunch destination.
After the meal, check out the terrace, which is open until 6.00 pm.
Tip: Request a table on the outer edge of the restaurant for best views.
Book your table at Darwin Brasserie
Address: Level 36, Sky Garden, 1 Sky Garden Walk, London EC3M 8AF
Station: Bank/Monument
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