I pride myself in my brunching abilities and as somewhat of a repeat visitor to the Wharf I thought I’d compile my top 7 places to visit. This is by no means a comprehensive list as there is always more eating and drinking to be done, but it’s a good starting point.
1. Humble Grape Wine bar
Chillaxed to the max. Whenever I’m in the Wharf I endeavour to swing by H.G for a glass of vino on the waterfront. Their wine selection is extensive so whether you’re partial to a Pinot or a sucker for a Shiraz there’s something to suit every palate, their charcuterie isn’t too shabby either. Plus you can actually have a decent convo without having to shout over Pete and his band of merry bankers…
Perfect for: Chilled lunches/ date nights/ small groups
Price: ££
2. Pergola on the Wharf
If you’re looking for vibey on arrivey this is a solid option. Sister to Pergola Paddington, think forest decor, floor to ceiling views over the Wharf, samba dancers & bottomless brunches. “Pergola Lates” is a great way to spend your Friday evening with a fresh line-up of live acts and DJs every week playing Disco, Funk and House. As a semi- professional bruncher I can vouch for the Béarnaise burger, East India fries & the Crispy squid – I know, I know, I’m too good to you guys.
Perfect for: Friday night out/ girly brunch
Price: ££
3. The Alchemist
Heavy on the theatrics. If you have never visited an Alchemist, I question what you’ve been doing up until now. Come and find me once you’ve tried one of their colour changing cocktails, they’re a revelation. The Alchemist is a great place to head if you want more from your evening than your bog standard Porn Star. Buzzy atmosphere, dry ice & punchy flavours – if Harry Potter had opted to move into mixology this would totally be his jam. You’re looking at between £8-10 per cocktail which isn’t too bad for Central London but it’s never just one drink is it. The hardest decision you’ll have here is what to try first!
Perfect for: Thirsty Thursdays/ Fab Friday’s/ groups
Price: £££
4. Burger & Lobster
Two words: lobster roll. Give me lobster I can eat at lunch time without breaking the bank and I am in there like swimwear. Drinks are reasonable and there’s burger options galore for those who are slightly fish adverse (clues in the name with this one). If you do opt for lobster they give you a bib which doubles up as an after dinner cape if you’d like to ride the tube home like an absolute hero.
Perfect for: Working lunches/ dins with pals
Price: ££
5. The Parlour
Part of the Drake & Morgan chain you know what you’re getting as soon as you arrive, and I’ve never been disappointed. Their menu is varied, prices are pretty standard and there’s just a very laid back vibe throughout. Moments from Canary Wharf station the décor gives Alpine realness, the toilets have the best lighting (don’t roll your eyes, it’s just a fact). Plus they are extremely dog friendly. So if you want to treat your Bichon Frise to a boujee brunch or take your Dalmatian on a dinner date then this should be top of your list.
Perfect for: Working lunches/ large groups/ pooch friendly brunches
Price: ££
6. Plateau
Rooftop realness. I visited Plateau on a Sunday – there’s just something nicer about the city on the weekend, mainly the lack of other people. As Plateau is located on the 4th floor of Canada Place, you do feel far removed from the hustle and bustle of the main square which was a big tick in the box from me. The menu is unfussy and well executed – the Eggs Royale was delish, 2 courses + bottomless bubbles at the weekend will set you back £55pp. Would also make a good location for a mid week luncheon.
Perfect for: Working lunches/ intimate groups/ weekend brunches
Price: £££
7. Roka
Boujee baby. Serving contemporary Japanese cuisine, this place is top of my to visit list – maybe after pay day though, as you could easily get carried away and drop an entire months wages because everything is far too tasty. Recommend the tasting menu (£77/90pp) to get a real feel for all the different dishes, faves are: sashimi, tiger prawn tempura, salmon teriyaki and of course a glass of Sake.
Perfect for: Payday perusing/ dates/ special occasions
Price: ££££
For my pooch mama’s and puppers
- If you’re looking to make the jump to an East London postcode avec pooch I’ve already scoped out some fab dog friendly rental accommodation and some things I wish I’d known before renting with a pup.
- Here are some London hotspots to grab lunch with your four legged friend, if like me you refuse to leave your furry friend at home #DiningWithMyDog
- Plus if the darker evenings are making you want to ctrl alt delete out of London entirely there’s some travel inspo for you right here
Ooh I want to try them all, with or without doggy pals ❤️
Author October 8, 2021 / 2:56 pm
So many options 😍