Darwin At Sky Garden - Brunch In London

Brunch in the sky? Darwin At Sky Garden promised to take brunch to new heights.

A brunch in London set high above in the clouds is a hugely tempting premise so I didn't need much persuading I have to tell you.  A couple of Sunday's ago the tall one and I headed up the Walkie Talkie building to experience this for ourselves.

Outside the Darwin Brasserie - Level 36

There was a queue to visit the Sky Garden but restaurant goers bypass the queues and go through airport style security before being whisked up the lift.

The Darwin Brasserie, fresh and modern interior

We were shown to our seats - a fabulous window seat with incredible views over the River Thames and the city.

Having been given menus and decided on our main meal we were shown to the bar area to where the (bottomless) Bloody Mary's were, there were four variations to choose from and items to tailor it to taste. Also on the menu were unlimited milkshakes from the Milkshake Bar - I absolutely loved the sweet Vanilla Bean one and the Fresh Berry one but you can also enjoy other flavours like Banana which was really popular on the day. Kale smoothie is also an option but on this occasion I passed.

Starters

The buffer starters were a fabulous savoury mix of salads, cheese board and meats. Top choices for me and the tall one included the potato and chorizo salad, smoked salmon, the bloody mary prawn cocktail and the asparagus dressed in a truffle vinaigrette. I suspect I could have filled up solely on the starters but sensibly I paced myself for what was to come.

For my hot main I was rather tempted by the pancake stack with bacon and maple syrup but opted for a savoury hot and chose a traditional brunch favourite of Eggs Florentine which was cooked to perfection. The tall one chose Beef Brisket for his main but he was considering a traditional roast which was also on offer.

Dessert Buffet 

Well when I caught sight of the dessert buffet my eyes were dancing and my belly ignited, so many treats on offer. I have to be honest after the two previous courses and upteen milkshakes I was pretty full but I always make sure I am never so full as I cannot manage something sweet...

I balanced my sweet treats with some healthy berry fruits and it was a great and refreshing combination. I opted for a slice of chocolate and walnut salted caramel tarte which was rich and indulgent but a real highlight. The waffles were tasty and teamed with maple syrup and fresh fruit sublime. I also had the blueberry cheesecake which was truly delightful with a perfectly crunchy base but a light and silky mousse topping. Also on offer were 3 differently filled doughnuts, creme brulee, Eton Mess and lots, lots more.

Having taken brunch to the limits we made our way outside and soaked in the views and admired the Sky Garden

In conclusion this is quite simply a wonderful way to spend a lazy Sunday,  an epic brunch that will tantalize the tastebuds and breathtaking views of London. I am already planning a return visit.

Brunch at Darwin Brasserie is served on Sundays from 11.30am to 4.30pm and costs £38 per person

*We were guests of Darwin Brasserie

Brunch At One Aldwych Hotel

I love Afternoon Tea and I love eating out but I was looking to do something a little different for our Wedding Anniversary.. During my research I came across the three course Brunch at One Aldwych Hotel (held in the Axis Restaurant), thought it a fabulous menu and promptly booked it for a Saturday. I was looking forward to it for two whole weeks!

Well what can I say, I honestly cannot think of a nicer way to enjoy a weekend. We arrived at 12pm and it was a little quiet in the dining room, although my eyes instantly were drawn to the dessert buffet, more about that later.

The room was cool and stylish with mirrors, white walls and huge floral displays. The setting and vibe was relaxed and there were all ages groups all enjoying the Brunch.

Although you can choose the unlimited Prosecco option we opted for just the Brunch, neither of us are huge drinkers and later we were going to have cocktails in The Lobby Bar! We ordered coffee to start - a Latte and an Americano and tap water was poured into our glasses and periodically topped up throughout the meal. Had I not been going for cocktails after I would have also ordered an Espresso Martini.

Whilst we were choosing what to eat bread and butter was brought to our table - delicious, light and airy Rosemary and salt bread..just to whet our appetite...

First course

I chose blueberry pancake with maple syrup and creme fraiche - the pancake was thick and fluffy with gooey blueberry inside, I was given a tiny pot of maple syrup to pour and a pot of blueberry compote. Delicious.

My husband opted for a dairy free Eggs Benedict 

Hollandaise sauce was replaced with mayonnaise and the usual bread was substituted with the Rosemary bread that we had with butter to start.

For our mains we chose the following

Beer Battered Fish & Thrice Baked Chips - This came with mushy peas, the batter was light and crispy, the chips,  my husband declared, the best he had ever tasted.

Pork Belly, Spinach and Chantenay Carrots - Melt in the mouth pork belly, perfectly cooked spinach and sweet carrots. The sauce was absolutely delicious. My only little quibble was that the carrots could have been warmer.

The portions are quite deceptive as by now we were pretty full. However, where I was sat I had the best view of the Dessert Buffet and I was itching to go up there and try some of the tempting puds.

My husband opted for a plate full of fresh fruit (good man!) I on the other hand was only too happy to satisfy my sweet craving!

Bread & Butter Pudding, A Strawberry Mousse concoction and my top pick a delectable Pistachio Creme Brulee that was quite simply to die for!

However, I only scratched the surface of the offerings, there was chocolate cake, huge chocolate cookies, Toffee Popcorn, a fruit cake, jellies and much more.

And to top it all off the fabulous staff brought out Turkish Delight and Marshmallows for our Anniversary!

Such a lovely gesture.

We had a fabulous time, enjoyed amazing food and the staff were attentive and exceptional.

Brunch at One Aldwych is highly recommended!

One Aldwych Hotel 3 Course Brunch costs £30 per person