A few weeks ago, I discovered an awesome restaurant that would adapt to any circumstances: whether you come with family, friends, even business colleagues…you definitely will enjoy your time at Petersham Nurseries !
The venue is located in Richmond and has a tea room, a glasshouse restaurant and a shop with plenty of plants and antiques. This is a genuine oasis of greenery, away from the bustle of London. Just thinking about it makes me drool with envy…I have to come back!

A hidden gem near London

We arrived at Petersham Nurseries with no preconceived idea of the place, but given the bad weather outside that day, we were just dreaming of a warm and comforting lunch.
This is actually what we found as we stepped into the restaurant: the staff were cheerful and the restaurant was decorated in rustic and exotic style, with a warm combination of ochre and green tones. We learnt that despite the Italian-inspired lunch menu, the owner of the place was influenced by Asia, which explained the asian furniture in the room and the Indian posters on the walls. Everything did at the same time surprise and charm us.

Slow-Food at Petersham Nurseries

The new Head Chef, Damian Clisby, works alongside Culinary Director, Lucy Boyd. They create “an evolving menu inspired by what is growing in the garden, the changing seasons and the  local environment”. Petersham Nurseries is involved in the Slow Food Movement, which “links the pleasure of food with a commitment to community and the environment”. In 2015, the place was awarded the ‘Winner’ “Best Slow Food Restaurant / Eatery” in the SF London Awards. We were in good hands…

Healthy lunch

We had amazing appetizers: “fried polenta with taleggio cheese & rosemary” accompanied with “beetroot & chickpeas with winter vegetables”. When you eat this, you just learn again what a real vegetable is! Tastes and flavors were incredible (especially the carrots!). The polenta was exquisitely crispy outside and soft inside… An apparent simple starter became a memorable experience!
As mains, we had a “Paddock farm pork, grilled king cabbage & Yukon gold potatoes”, which was excellent …and a “Fillet of Pollock with white polenta”. A real pleasure…
The desserts were quite as promising. Firstly, a “Warm Flourless Original Bean Chocolate with an Orange Cake & Mascarpone”. A mouthwatering delicacy, I shall tell. We were impressed by the delicate orange flavors, as well as the chocolate cake!

Then, a “Sicilian Pomegranate Sorbet”, delightfully fruity with a smooth texture. The best option to end this wonderful meal…
If you wish to spend a good time eating good food (for lunch or for an afternoon tea)  in a charming environment, then you will definitely be delighted by Petersham Nurseries. Besides, you can enjoy a family walk along the Thames before or after dining there.
For those looking for activities related to gardening or wine tasting, Petersham Nurseries organises many events during the year, which are obviously of interest. Enjoy the visit!

To find out more:
The Petersham Nurseries – Church Lane – Richmond TW10 7AB.
Slow Food Movement