DRUNCH will always be a favourite of mine. You know the kind of place you genuinely feel at home, so much you’d rather go there alone than get take out.
It’s tough to describe the appeal, it’s little bit off the beaten track, a real neighbourhood place, you have to get off the main high street to find. The patio is very cool in the winter or summer. I like the fall the best, about now when the sun is still shining but the heaters and blankets provide any necessary added warmth.
The decor is opulent but casual, velvets and florals but not so perfect you feel uncomfortable or too pristine. The beautiful flowers on the bar always a highlight for me and in the winter you’ll find me hogging the fire.
In the bustling city life, finding a spot where you feel completely at ease can be a rare treasure. For me, that treasure is this spot in St John’s Wood. It’s not just a café or a restaurant; it's a sanctuary where the ambiance, the food, and the warmth of service blend to create a truly homely experience.
Tucked away, slightly off the main thoroughfare, Drunch is somewhat of a hidden gem. This isn't a place you stumble upon while strolling down the high street; it’s one you seek out, led by whispers of its charm and the promise of a unique culinary experience. And it’s well worth the detour.
The allure of Drunch begins with its setting. The patio area is an enchanting space where time seems to slow down. In the summer, it offers a cool, shaded haven, while in the winter, it transforms into a cozy nook with the help of radiant heaters and plush blankets that invite diners to linger. Autumn, however, is when Drunch truly comes into its own. The air is crisp, the sun still contributes a gentle warmth, and the setting is just perfect for enjoying a hot beverage or a hearty meal outdoors.
Inside, Drunch refuses to conform to a singular style, and perhaps that’s what makes it so inviting. The decor strikes a fine balance between opulence and comfort, featuring rich velvet textures and vibrant floral accents that are elegant yet welcoming. It doesn’t carry the intimidating perfection of a high-end restaurant; instead, it feels like visiting a well-kept, loving home.
In the past couple of years it's had a complete makeover, so I've added a couple more photographs to show the new look.
The bar area, adorned with beautiful, fresh flowers, adds a lively touch of colour and fragrance, enhancing the overall aesthetic and mood. In the colder months, the fireplace does become a focal point, I love a real fire, so you have to fight with the regulars and newcomers alike for a spot close to the warmth. It’s here that many, including myself, find a favourite winter perch, enjoying the gentle crackle and glow of the fire.
But what is a beautiful setting without great food and drink? Drunch delivers wonderfully on this aspect too, with a menu that caters to both refined and hearty tastes. Whether it’s their brunch offerings that can turn a late morning into a delightful affair, or the evening meals that feature comforting classics with a gourmet twist, there’s something to satisfy every palate. The drinks menu is equally thoughtful, featuring everything from expertly brewed coffee to innovative cocktails, each served with a flair that complements the overall experience.
The customers are a mixture. You find glamourous ladies enjoying a macchiato or yummy mummies juggling pushchairs and gossip with equal veracity. Business men (probably estate agents, there’s few in the neighbourhood) grabbing a bite or lovebirds snuggled in a corner savouring eggs Benedict.
The menu isn’t massive but the food is delicious, made with love, I always have the avocado on toast which is generously sprinkled with the most divine feta, not sure where they get it from but worth going just for a taste.
The thing I like the most about DRUNCH is now kind the staff are. Makes me want to come back.
They do have other locations too, one in Mayfair I think.
And if you are looking for a special place for food after some holiday shopping, the fires and the decorations make this a wonderful choice. They do add a service charge to the bill, even for one, and a donation to UNICEF but I don’t mind. The service has always been 1st class for me. It’s quite simply my kind of place.