After fighting our way through airport-style security and ascending a 36 storey lift, we arrived at the beautiful Sky Garden in the heart of the City. Although mid August, there was a heavy layer of cloud over London, but this didn’t tamper with the splendour of the 360 degree views of London with which we were met on arrival.
We had booked a table at the Darwin Brasserie for my 21st Birthday celebration, one of two eateries in the establishment, the other being the Fenchurch Restaurant which is considerably pricier and the more formal of the two. There is also a bar on the main level which is apparently frequented by city workers after hours. We arrived half an hour early for our 12.30 booking, which gave us ample time to wander around the beautiful two storey garden and take in the views from the balcony on the south facing side.
The décor of the Darwin Brasserie is modern and stylish, with a laid-back feel and a menu priced to match. For the location and the quality of the view from the table, the food is very reasonably priced. The attention to detail is extraordinary, a number of days before the event we called ahead to warn them of a member of our party who had difficulty eating certain things; to which they helpfully responded and made a special dish of the day.
The menu is simple but vibrant, offering starters ranging from Steak Tartare and Oysters to a deliciously simple Gazpacho and Tomato Salad. Depending on your tolerance to garlic, however, I would be careful ordering the Gazpacho! Recommended by the excellent and attentive staff, I had the Tuna Nicoise Salad for my main, which was perfectly presented and the fish exquisitely cooked. There was an array of other simple mains, including a perfectly textured Courgette and Basil Risotto and then some more hearty traditional options such as Fillet Steak and Fish and Chips (which we did not order but looked divine on neighbouring tables).
To satisfy the sweet toothed among the party there was a mouthwatering selection. I had the Crème Brûlée, which is a simple desert, but it was done to perfection with a hard exterior and deliciously creamy underlayer.
We had a fantastic day and the staff were attentive and friendly without being overbearing, especially to the older members of our party. With some of the best views available, and food to match, the Darwin Brasserie at the Sky Garden is a must in London!
More information on Sky Garden Brasserie here.
Written by a Thoroughly Modern Man, George Vaughan-Barratt.