Affectionately known as the Walkie Talkie, 20 Fenchurch Street was completed in late 2014 and the three storey Sky Garden opened in early 2015. This public space is popular with tourists and locals, offering 360 degree uninterrupted views across the city. The Sky Garden is London’s highest public garden and even has an open air terrace for enjoying in the summer heat.
Darwin is an all-day brasserie located on Level 36 with a menu inspired by the very best of British. The kitchen is operated by event caterer Rhubarb who offer a range of tempting dishes using seasonal, home-grown ingredients. On a sunny Sunday morning we visited the impressive building to try the all-day Sunday brunch. After the rigorous security check we zoomed up in the lift to reach the upper floors, a bright arena filled with lush foliage and flowers.
For £38 per person guests are invited to indulge in the buffet, choose one hot dish and enjoy the milkshake bar and unlimited bloody mary station. The sumptuous buffet table was laid with fresh juice, pastries, fruit, delicatessen items (cheese, meat, salmon), salad and bread. The sweet side features waffles, doughnuts, french toast, cheesecake and miniature crème brulees. Head chef Arnaud Delannay must be extremely busy on Sundays, the restaurant was full with hungry guests and the buffet table seems to magically refill within moments.
With the clouds peering in through the windowed walls and the tiny display of London life happening far down below us it felt very special dining at this height. Overwhelmed with the buffet choice I tried to serve myself modest portions, but it all looked and smelt so good. The fresh and summery asparagus, pea and crumbly goat’s cheese salad was my favourite, lightly seasoned and cooked to perfection. Also tasty were the platter of meats, the heritage tomato salad and the creamy British cheeses. I could have just eaten from this lovely selection but we had mains to come.
Hot dishes on offer include traditional brunch options such as Eggs Benedict, Full English and Pancakes but we decided to go decadent and order one of the Sunday lunch choices. I had Roast Spatchcocked Poussin with watercress and my guest opted for Roast Rib of Beef with Yorkshire pudding and traditional garnish. The plates were delivered promptly and looked divine. I needed extra gravy but aside from that the dishes were faultless, brilliantly cooked meat, with a crispy skin and accompanied by roast potatoes and vegetables. I thought the Roast Beef was a little chewy but the flavour was good.
We picked at a few of the dessert treats before retiring downstairs to admire the view of our beautiful city.
More information on Darwin’s Sunday brunch and book a table here.