Great gastropub for families

A pub lunch with the children can be a recipe for stress, so choosing a family-friendly spot is key to enjoying a relaxing break.

The Victoria in East Sheen, just off Richmond Park, is co-owned by Michelin star celebrity chef Paul Merrett and his business partner Greg Bellamy. And it's a perfect place to visit en famille for a reasonably priced, totally delicious meal.

You may know Paul Merrett as a co-presenter of the BBC's cookery show Economy Gastronomy. He's also run the kitchen at a number of top London restaurants and taken part in several other BBC food series.

The Victoria looks like an ordinary pub from the outside, but round the back is an airy dining room with an expansive terrace, outside kitchen and  - best of all! - a children's play area.

Parents can browse the menu and read the paper while little ones entertain themselves in a safe enclosed area within eye- and ear-shot.

When we visited, everything we ate was beautifully presented and perfectly cooked - as you'd expect from a chef of Paul Merrett's pedigree. The children's menu had enough variety on it to satisfy our chip and our pasta lover, and all was from well-sourced ingredients. Adult courses were unpretentious and absolutely scrumptious.

The Victoria is a great place to take friends or family for Saturday or Sunday lunch - but make sure you book in advance, as a neighbourhood gem like this gets very busy.

If you're coming from further afield and fancy an overnight pub stay, The Victoria even has rooms.

Call The Victoria on 020 8876 4238 or visit its website www.thevictoria.net for more information.  

Start a discussion :: Print this article ::