Restaurant of the Week: No. Fifty Cheyne

Overlooking the River Thames, with views spanning Chelsea Embankment Gardens and Albert Bridge, No. Fifty Cheyne is a vibrant oasis amidst the drizzly grey London streets. The restaurant is owned by Sally Greene (the mastermind behind Ronnie Scott’s), who has imbued the space with a relaxed magnificence that is only overshadowed by its killer menu.

Restaurant of the Week: No. Fifty Cheyne

Formerly known as the Cheyne Walk Brasserie, No. Fifty Cheyne now lives on as a local favourite serving British pub classics with a twist. Head Chef Iain Smith takes the reigns on the menu, with an emphasis on fresh British ingredients and the calescent open grill. Think Sunday Roast, Rabbit Terrine, and an impressive grill selection that would make any keen carnivore salivate.

The brunch menu, as expected, is nothing to scoff at. You can’t go far into your London brunch search without coming across No. Fifty Cheyne, which now has a big presence within the city’s foodie scene (as well as our very own brunch roundup).

Sat with a great view of the bar (and its beautiful display of trailing flowers), we could see why No. Fifty Cheyne had become a hotspot for avid Instagrammers. The gold tones of the interior space were offset by the quiet glow of chandeliers, making the space seem much warmer than the chill of rain outside. Nature still seems to seep into the cracks however, with creeping vines decorating the aforementioned bar and the cleverly positioned dividers sat between tables. Who said social distancing couldn’t look good? No. Fifty Cheyne makes it look easy.

The smell from the nearby kitchen was more than a little distracting, and with the vantage point of seeing everything being made right in front of you it was hard not to be intrigued by all the food and drink coming out.

The drink of choice for the day was a Pomegranate Cosmopolitan, ‘a shaken summertime classic’ that definitely got me in the mood despite the dark clouds outside. Sweet and tangy, it was a great energising start to the meal (fair warning though: it packs a punch).

We followed this up with Chicken and Waffles and Ibèrico Eggs Benedict, both of which ranked highly if the empty plates were anything to go by. The chicken in particular had the most satisfying crunch, with the yoghurt and tomato dressing adding a spicy edge. The addition of maple syrup, a more American touch, cut through the rich, salty flavours with a burst of sweetness.

We both felt quite stuffed after the more than generous brunch portions, but couldn’t help eyeing up the dessert menu (a haven for anyone with a sweet tooth). British classics like sticky toffee pudding and strawberry trifle took pride of place, as well as richer options like dark chocolate fondant with pistachio and white chocolate. You could even crack out the cheese board if you wanted to stay for a few extra drinks.

And just when we thought the fun was over, complementary scones with lashings of cream and jam were brought to the table – the best parting gift I’d received in a while. Despite admitting defeat at the dessert menu, I could definitely find room for fresh baked goods from the kitchen.

Last Word

For a dining experience that makes you feel well and truly pampered, look no further than No. Fifty Cheyne. The atmosphere is friendly and relaxed, making it a great spot to catch up with some friends over a drink or two. And with food as delicious as it looks, it should be a no brainer where your next brunch blowout should take place. fiftycheyne.com

Featured image: Courtesy of No. Fifty Cheyne

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