It’s a warm summer’s evening, you know, the first one when you can stroll with no jacket, toes exposed, with unbounded confidence that the weather won’t suddenly turn on you. I’m making my way to Home House, a private members club nestled in the quiet streets of Marylebone where Juliet balconies and tumbling wisteria are two a penny.
When I tell my guest where we are going for dinner, she squeals with delight. Having been here before for a reception, she knew exactly what sort of a treat we were in for. We arrive to warm smiles as we enter the grandiose entrance hall and lead out to the beautiful courtyard Garden restaurant. As we settle down, we admire our surroundings, a gorgeous Raj Tent acts as the centrepiece of this tranquil setting.
We get chatting to our waiter for the evening and had the menu explained to us. Gin cocktails and a summer spritz menu to kick off proceedings, it simply felt rude not to sample a refreshing aperitif. A gorgeous selection of wine and champagne, they even have my favourite white, a Riesling from Alsace which is nothing but divine to sup on, especially as the sun begins to set.
Food at The Garden Home House
The food menu caters for everyone’s needs and desires offering seasonal dishes as well as plant-based options. I start with the tuna tartar and my guest goes for a burrata, we both get a touch of food envy, especially when she cuts into its creamy middle. We do a merry dance, leaning over and sampling one another’s dishes.
The food isn’t rushed, and we are not fussed over either, just a casual check-in every now and then with a patter of light conversation, perfect. Our mains arrived, we may have over-ordered, but don’t you always? I go for the Dover sole, a classic, and my guest the lamb tagine which is sticky and sweet as well as tender. Our sides consist of a heritage tomato salad, which is always a winner for me when done right, chips and a charred hispi cabbage.
We take our time, people-watching and admiring our surroundings. The warm glow from the lamps after dark gives the gardens a homely feel and the light chatter around us makes for a warm atmosphere. The house is over 200 years old and was fully restored in the late nighties into its current form. It’s beautiful, mixing old architecture with modern aesthetics it combines grandeur and glamour. You really feel how much love has gone into creating this space.
People come and go, and we decide we have a tiny bit of room for something sweet and both go for ice cream, even a simple staple like that impresses the pallet. As our evening draws to a close, we head upstairs to the Drawing Room for a nightcap and are thrilled to see a jazz trio tinkering away in the corner. As we listen to dulcet tones and sup on a negroni, we melt into the cosy sofas wondering if we’ll ever make it home.
Our evening at The Garden had been wonderful. A homely mix of comfort and elegance. Perfect for everything from a leisurely breakfast meeting to dinner with family and friends. At the weekends you can also enjoy the BBQ menu and even sit back and enjoy a cigar from the snug, if the moment takes you. A dreamy visit away from the hustle and bustle of London.
The Garden at Home House
20 Portman Square
London
W1H 6LW
United Kingdom
