The Lavery

A spectacular new addition to South Kensington’s dining scene, The Lavery delivers on elegance, flavour, and an impeccable sense of place. Nestled perfectly between South Kensington tube station and the Natural History Museum, it’s easy to find—and impossible to forget. From the moment I arrived, the experience felt special. The menu, displayed outside, set the tone for what was to come: a refined yet inviting culinary journey. Upon entering, I was guided up the beautifully carved historic staircase, which opened into a grand foyer bathed in soft candlelight. The dining space is stunning—crisp white walls adorned with intricate period embellishments, warm wood tones from the tables, and a soft glow illuminating each table, creating an intimate yet lively atmosphere. The cocktail and wine list were extensive, making it difficult to choose, but I settled on a grapefruit daiquiri—a beautifully balanced blend of sweet and tart, executed to perfection. The service, especially impressive given it was their first night, was attentive without being intrusive—staff checked in at just the right moments, ensuring everything felt seamless. For starters, I chose the Scottish scallop with cime di rapa, tomato, and cedro, while my companion opted for the carne cruda—veal tartare with raw artichoke and parmesan. Both were exceptional. The scallop was delicate, fresh, and harmonised beautifully with the citrusy brightness of the cedro. My companion was equally thrilled with his tartare, which was silky and well-balanced. For my main, I had the monkfish with alubia beans, marinda tomato, and mojo verde—a standout dish. The monkfish was perfectly cooked, tender yet firm, and the roasted tomato added a deep umami richness that tied everything together. My partner enjoyed the Middle White pork chop with endive, Dijon, and parsley, paired with Ratte potatoes, which allowed him to soak up every last drop of the dish’s sauce—something he particularly loved. As we moved on to wine, we opted to order by the glass, allowing us to sample a few different options. Each selection was excellent, well-paired with the meal, and reasonably priced, with glasses ranging from £6 to £12.50—a great value considering the quality. To finish, I had the Pomelo and Passionfruit ‘Lavery Mess’—a refreshing and well-portioned dessert. While overall delicious, the cream had a slightly bitter note, which may have come from the pomelo juice or a liqueur. It didn’t detract too much from the experience, but it was the only element I’d tweak. From start to finish, The Lavery exceeded expectations—beautifully executed dishes, a well-curated menu, a buzzing yet refined ambiance, and a team that made every guest feel welcome. It’s a place I’ll be returning to, time and time again. If you’re in South Kensington, don’t miss it.