The Folly London – A haven of escapism in the heart of the city  

As soon as you enter The Folly in London’s banking district it feels a little like stepping into Narnia. Gone are the grey streets of the city and instead you are encased in a world of colour. Foliage intertwines round light shades, furry blankets lay draped over chairs and trees sit in-between tables. It’s an oasis of calm; marrying-garden inspired décor with a chic, urban vibe and whilst it might sound like a bit of an odd mix it’s one that works and it works very well.

We headed down on a chilly December afternoon, happy to be out of the biting cold and ready to settle down for brunch. The atmosphere was the first thing which got us – it was cosy and inviting and although it was busy, didn’t feel overcrowded. We were seated by a window, flooded with natural light and a perfect spot for people watching.

After a perusal of the menu – which offers the usual brunch candidates such as burgers and sandwiches – we were swayed by their Sunday roast. (The sight of another diners roast beef wafted under our noses on its way to their table was almost too much to bear.) A roast can be a tricky dish to master –  it needs to encapsulate the feel of a really good home-cooked dish, but be special enough to leave the house for. I opted for chicken and my partner beef and instead of a starter we ordered sourdough bread while we waited. The restaurant recommended us a bottle of Chamuyo Merlot, an Argentinian wine that was juicy and supple with rich notes of summer fruits, herbs and warm spice – the ideal choice when the weather is cold outside.

It’s an oasis of calm; marrying-garden inspired décor with a chic, urban vibe and whilst it might sound like a bit of an odd mix it’s one that works very well…

The bread was a mini loaf, dusted with flour and piping hot from the oven. An instant win. We slathered it with butter and dipped it in olive oil and balsamic vinegar – I’d highly recommend you order this on your visit.

The roast arrived and it was clear our eyes had run away with us. Perhaps the sides of spinach and macaroni cheese weren’t necessary (but they looked so good?!) The chicken was crispy on the outside and succulent on the in, the potatoes cooked to perfection and the vegetables had just the right amount of crunch. The yorkshires were a firm favourite and the gravy deliciouis and teeming with flavour (we ordered a double portion just to be on the safe side and were glad we did!)

Although fit to bursting after the main, we managed to squeeze in room for dessert and chose a black forest knickerbocker glory which the menu explained as ideal for sharing. It was delivered with mountains of creamy vanilla ice cream, cream, berries and cherries. It was delicious and the perfect finisher to the meal.

The Folly is a restaurant to visit with friends, family and your other half. It’s as stylish as it is chic and marries together all you could want from a dinner out. It is homey and cosy, yet it is contemporary and cool and every mouthful from start to finish is a real treat. It’s eating out as it is meant to be.

        The Folly London

41 Gracechurch St, London EC3V 0BT

0845 468 0102

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