Sunlight streaming through high reaching windows and illuminating a stack of newspapers to be dove into at will from a lush leather snug – a delightful and relaxing scene was set for Sunday brunch perfection at Apero Restaurant & Bar.
Situated in the vaulted cellars of South Kensington’s luxury boutique hotel, the Ampersand, Apero has recently launched a weekend brunch menu. Steps from the Underground Station with the cultural delights of Museum Quarter round the corner and Kensington Gardens and Hyde Park just a short stroll away along Exhibition Road, the attractive and comfortable Apero makes a smart choice for kicking off leisurely weekends.
The menu leans more towards morning than afternoon for inspiration and isn’t quite as vegetarian friendly as some might hope. That said, if you hanker a fine full English (eggs any style, bacon, black and white pudding, grilled tomato, field mushrooms, kidneys and grilled sourdough bread, £10), you’re in luck. That’s what I had during my Sunday visit, and I found each item on my plate to be quality stuff. The puddings – made exclusively for the restaurant by nearby Knightsbridge butcher, O’Shea’s – were particularly delicious. Other notable dishes from the menu include grilled onglet with fried eggs, pancakes, beetroot risotto, and smoked salmon with scrabbled eggs.
I also especially enjoyed my Med Mary cocktail (£8) “made with Mediterranean gin” (which I guess means they used Gin Mare). It was refreshing, vegetal and spicy and as good as most bloody Mary offerings I’ve had in London.
Service felt a bit uncertain but certainly got the job done and with a very pleasant attitude. However, it kind of felt like my brunch mate and I had been left to our own devices toward the end of the meal. It would have been nice to have been informed about available afters. Leaving the restaurant, we noticed a tasty array of sweets lined up at the bar. They hadn’t been there when we entered, and no one made any mention of dessert at all, and it wasn’t listed anywhere on the menu. We were asked if we wanted coffee after our main course, but that was it.
I’m happy to recommend brunch at Apero for the quality of food, the convenient location and the lovely interior.
Apero Restaurant & Bar is located at the Ampersand Hotel, 2 Harrington Road, SW7 3ER. Brunch is served Saturday and Sunday from noon to 2.30pm. Find out more at aperorestaurantandbar.com.
