
A neighbourhood bistro nestled in the heart of stylish Pavillion Road is the quintessential location for superstar chef, Jason Atherton’s latest restaurant venture. Opened in 2024, Three Darlings (named after his three daughters) is a stylish all-day dining destination which is fast becoming the go-to for the well-heeled fashionistas of Chelsea, offering an eclectic menu of English bistro dishes, serving from breakfast right through to late-night supper.
The restaurant is an elegant, inviting space, perfectly designed for large groups as well as intimate gatherings. As you enter the restaurant you’ll notice a delightful patio area, which is destined to become a popular spot for alfresco dining in the warmer months.
On arrival, we were shown to one of the most interesting tables in the restaurant, perched adjacent to the stairs, directly facing the kitchen – ringside seats, you may call them. Perfectly situated to watch the ‘theatre’ of the kitchen, and seeing your food prepared right before your eyes.
So, what shall I order?
Harissa Flat Bread, Red Pepper, Kalamata Olive
This is the ideal sharing stater of the chewiest, pillow-soft flatbread topped with harissa, sweet red pepper, and earthy kalamata olive. I’m not even the biggest fan of olives personally, but this might be the dish to change all that. There’s also a generous grating of parmesan which added an extra savoury note. Great to share and tear with one of their splendid cocktails, too!
Spanish Octopus, Sobrasada & Butter Bean Aioli
A gleaming plate of Spanish Octopus will instantly please any seafood-lover at the table, and my dining companion was thrilled with the offering. The octopus, delicately charred and coated in the copped hue of Sobrasada. The rich, meaty cured pork is the perfectly matched with the succulent, tender flesh of the octopus. Each mouthful was elevated by the silky texture of the butter bean aioli which paired well with the punchy flavours of the dish.
Crapaudine Beets, Burrata & Nasturtium
Fans of creamy, burrata will delight in this salad, which let’s face it, is more cheese than salad – always a good sign. The Crapaudine beets with their purplish, dark flesh were deliciously tender and sweet. The combination with the milky cheese and the peppery bite of the nasturtium leaves was a savoury delight. This salad alone could be ordered as a simple, light lunch but certainly a great addition to the accompanying larger dishes.
Spatchcock Poussin & Spicy Mayo
For me, there isn’t a dish that can comes much closer to perfection than crispy chicken and a side of salty, crunchy fries – it’s my idea of food heaven. Luckily, my companion was far more interested in the Sea bass (mentioned below) so I was free to indulge in this perfectly spiced, plump poussin. The spicy mayo hit the spot with every mouthful, too. This dish has ‘signature’ written all over it and long may it remain on the menu.
Sea Bass, Garlic & Parsley Butter
Showstopping is the best way to describe the simple yet flawless presentation of fresh Sea bass with a gorgeously glossy coating of garlic and parsley butter. The Sea bass just melted with every bite, and the simple accompanying sauce complemented the freshness and delicately sweet flavours of this exceptional fish.
Winter Leaf Salad, Blood Orange & Beet Molasses
The flame-red of the radicchio is as pleasing to the eye as it is on the palette. This decidedly deceptive salad may at first glance look like not a whole lot is going on, however, the accompanying citrus of the blood orange and the treacly notes from the beet molasses make this a complex and appetizing winter salad.
Mince Pie Soft Serve
A festive visit meant out dessert had a delightful theme, which worked so well as a sharing treat. The creamiest, soft serve ice-cream, spiked with little chewy, pieces of mince pie filling, and topped with a swirl of decadently sweet caramel sauce was a joyous way to finish the meal. Although mince pies are generally considered in the category of ‘festive’ treat, I see no reason why Three Darlings can’t spread a little seasonal joy and keep this dessert on the menu, all year round.
Perfect for…
Lunch with friends, easy weekend brunches, romantic evening dinners, as well as cocktails after work in their delightful bar. It really is a restaurant that ticks all boxes.
Do you need to book?
On a weekday lunch you may be lucky with availability, however, around the weekend, it is advisable to book to avoid any disappointment. The team are so lovely and accommodating they’ll likely suggest waiting in the bar (always a good thing!) but a reservation is a prudent idea for peace of mind – especially if you’re hungry.
Anything else to know…
The Weekend Brunch is worth checking out as there’s an extensive menu with dishes only available at the weekend. We are already tempted by the sound of the Eggs Benedict with furikake and miso hollandaise, as well as the Three Darlings Bun with sausage, bacon, egg, cheese and spicy mayo.
Where to find Three Darlings?
241B Pavilion Road
London
SW1X 0BP
Website:
https://www.threedarlingslondon.com/
Nearest station:
Sloane Square
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