"It’s easy to walk through Holland Park hundreds of times without noticing Belvedere. We know because we’ve done it. But this old restaurant and ballroom, that dates back to the 17th century, is a gorgeous space that’s perfect for a special occasion. The room has a faded grandeur that reminds us of the dance hall from Beauty and the Beast, with an upstairs dining room that we’ve seen used for wedding receptions. The quiet room has a grand fireplace, and floor-to-ceiling windows where you can see children playing in the park and couples strolling through the calm flower garden. The Italian menu is good, without being memorable. The portions are small and the calamari isn't well-seasoned, but overall it’s a pleasant meal and not really the reason you come here. If there isn’t an event going on, ask for a seat on the outdoor terrace. It overlooks the garden and is a peaceful way to escape for a few hours. photo credit: Lesley Lau" - Rianne Shlebak
