Our Review Of SW16 Bar & Kitchen In Streatham: Creative Small Plates and Sunday Roasts In A Relaxed Setting

I'd be the first to admit that Streatham hasn't always been at the top of my list when it comes to restaurants and, despite living nearby, I don't visit the area often. But somewhere that has recently caught my eye is SW16 Bar & Kitchen, an all-day neighbourhood spot in Streatham Hill. They have been around since 2022, and have since curated a welcoming atmosphere that serves as a restaurant, bar and workspace all in one.

This relaxed neighbourhood bar offers something for everyone.

DesignMyNight Reviews SW16 Bar & Kitchen Streatham

Right on the high street, this venue immediately stood out among the other shops and restaurants as we approached. It had a pale pink exterior and their outdoor tables spilled onto the pavement, creating the feel of a European dining destination in summer. The inside was just as enticing, featuring white brick walls and a long tiled bar, with plenty of relaxed seating options. We were given a table by the window - perfect for people watching as it looks out over this bustling neighbourhood. 

What really impressed us on our visit was the personal, friendly service, everyone was happy to give us recommendations and talk us through each item on the menu. This added a lot to our overall experience, and truly made us feel welcome.

We began with a cocktail each, mine being a refreshing Hugo spritz (£13) that had just the right balance between soda water and prosecco. My dinner date chose a passionfruit martini (£12), made up of vanilla vodka, passionfruit puree and lime - served with a shot of prosecco.

The SW16 Bar & Kitchen menu features all kinds of delicious small plates.

We were here to sample their new Sunday menu, but before diving into the roasts we ordered a selection of snacks and starters on the manager's recommendation. Our firm favourite was the goat's cheese croquettes (£6), breaded balls of potato and oozing, tangy cheese, coated in breadcrumbs and served alongside a smoky paprika emulsion. The burrata and heritage tomato (£9.50) came a close second though, swimming in a vibrant green jalapeno gazpacho with walnuts, pickled strawberries and crispy music bread (a type of thin Italian flatbread) surrounding the cheese.

We also enjoyed some delicious grilled asparagus (£8), topped with a generous helping of crumbled feta, confit shallots and cured egg yolk that bound the flavours together. And lastly, the pickled oyster mushroom (£8) added a spicy note thanks to the coconut lece de tigre sauce, thinly sliced and finished with a flavourful combination of pepper, peas, broad beans and courgette.

Next up was the main event: the roasts. I ordered a mushroom and beetroot Wellington (£18), which had a crumbly, earthy filling that tasted surprisingly meaty despite being plant-based, wrapped in a thin, flaky pastry crust. My partner chose the Norfolk black corn-fed roast chicken (£20), a succulent chicken breast with a crispy skin, seasoned with lemon and thyme.

Whether you're dining inside or out, these Sunday roasts are a knock-out.

Both of our plates were piled high with fluffy roast potatoes, sweet, maple-glazed carrots and shredded seasonal greens, sitting on a bed of celeriac puree that was a real highlight for me. But the real star of the show had to be the giant Yorkshire puddings nestled on top, cooked to perfection and perfect for mopping up the copious amounts of gravy. And the best part? The Yorkshire puddings, potatoes and gravy were infinite.

On the side, we devoured a grilled hispi cabbage (£6), a wedge of tender, leafy cabbage drizzled in a creamy lime dressing, served with burnt onion puree and crispy shallots.

To finish, we ordered a second cocktail each: another Hugo spritz (£13) for me and a signature Parakeet (£11) for my boyfriend - a concoction of Aperol, Hayman's and pineapple, alongside lime and demerara. With these, though we were practically bursting at this point, we both enjoyed a scoop of rich, homemade chocolate ice cream (£2.50 each).

Overall: SW16 Bar & Kitchen London

SW16 Bar & Kitchen is a real local gem, and while we were there we saw people eating, drinking, chatting and even working from laptops - making it a great all-rounder. Their Sunday roasts were impeccable, full of flavour and boasting an infinite supply of Yorkshire puddings and roast potatoes, and the cocktails are both affordable and refreshing. And whatever day you visit on, be sure to try some of their starters and small plates too.

Enjoyed this SW16 Bar & Kitchen review? Check out our guide to the best bars in Streatham.