
Shot by a City Insiders curator.
Petersham Nurseries is a rare treat in London—a restaurant that feels more like a day in a secret garden than a typical dining experience. You’ll find yourself surrounded by glasshouse walls, cascading bougainvillea, and jasmine-scented air, making even a simple lunch feel like a special occasion. The food is solidly British with a focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients, though the wine list is pricey and parking is a nightmare (take the bus or a taxi). Book well in advance and go for the atmosphere as much as the menu.
A Garden Escape in Richmond
Petersham Nurseries in Richmond is one of those places that feels worlds away from the city, even though you’re technically still in London. The dining room is a converted greenhouse, wrapped in glass and greenery, with tables nestled among bougainvillea and jasmine in the summer months. It’s the kind of spot that makes you want to linger over lunch, even if the wine list is steep and parking is a stress-inducing affair.
The food is reliably good—think pea and parmesan risotto, charred squid with tomatoes, or the classic chicken and hassleback potato. Nothing is revolutionary, but everything is fresh and well-executed, with a focus on British produce. The drinks menu is hit or miss; the house bellini is refreshing, but the wine list feels overpriced for what you get. Still, the ambience carries the whole experience.
It’s not a place for a quick bite or a budget-friendly meal. You go here for the setting as much as the food, and it’s best reserved for birthdays, anniversaries, or a treat-yourself weekend lunch. Book weeks ahead, and if you can, arrive by taxi or bus to avoid the parking chaos. Once you’re in, you’ll understand why people keep coming back.