Now that the royal wedding is over, we can get back to focusing on things that really matter… like brunch. And if there’s one thing I like, it’s a good old brunch. Team that with decent cocktails plus a gorgeous view and we’re on to a winner. I recently found myself debating the correct timing of brunch; I insist that late afternoon is perfectly acceptable, but my friends disagree. Call me a lazy millennial, but why the hell can’t I have my cake mimosa and eat at two?
When it comes to home-made mimosas, you can guarantee that I have bought whatever budget bottle of prosecco is on offer at the shops. Similarly, my poached eggs are far from perfect, if not a little pathetic. But I’d like to think that I’m a sophisticated girl – so now and then, I drag myself out of bed to have a classy brunch and carefully constructed cocktail in some swanky setting like Sea Containers.
Stunning views over the Thames with a modern interior inspired by the Golden Age of transatlantic travel.
Classy is definitely the word for this riverside eatery, which is housed inside Southbank’s swish Mondrian Hotel. I took my mum (mothers love brunch too, you know) and we made our way through the glamorous hotel. Whether you’re coming from the Southwark-side, or the Thames, you can feel the upmarket vibe as soon as you enter.
The hotel oozes luxury, with an interior that features soft lighting and copper-clad walls, designed by British designer Tom Dixon. Our spot is in the middle of the restaurant, with a view of the iconic stainless steel bar. On sunny days, the pink seats of the Midsummer Terrace beckon. With striking views of the river and iconic city skyline – from St Paul’s to the Walkie Talkie building, you can’t go wrong.
The restaurant sits next to award-winning bar Dandelyan and beneath rooftop hotspot Rumpus Room, so the competition is tight. Sea Containers sets itself apart with a farm-to-table approach, using sustainably sourced ingredients designed for sharing. We like to kick off our mother-daughter afternoons with a tipple or two. I go for a subtly spiced Grey Goose Bloody Mary (£14) and have to stop myself choosing the bottomless option which costs only £4 extra. Mum decides on the Floradora (£13) – a refreshing gin-based cocktail muddled with fresh raspberry.
Go bottomless with a perfectly spiced bloody mary.
The new brunch menu is more meaty than eggy, with no mention of the standard benedict that dominates the scene. The BBQ pulled pork (£13) sits on gem lettuce and a muffin, before it’s finished with streaky bacon, making it both light and moreish at the same time. The slow cooked beef (£16) is smothered in a perfectly sweet acacia honey sauce, topped with gherkin and sandwiched between a brioche bun served with coleslaw and fries.
Just when we think we can’t eat any more, the dessert menu arrives. I go for another cocktail – this time the Bella Rosa (£13), which combines vodka with strawberry, vigorously shaken with egg white and topped with prosecco, making it a frothy delight. As soon as I spot Lily Vanilli’s pink lemonade tart (£10) on the menu I know we can’t leave without a mouthful. Small and mighty, this airy pink slice manages to taste fruity, yet tangy and smooth, but with a hint of fizz. You’ll want a taste before it disappears from the seasonal menu.
Serving up a slice of Lily Vanilli's showstopping creation.
The DesignMyNight Digest
With friendly service and a buzzing vibe, Sea Containers is an ideal spot for dining with friends, family, first dates – you name it. While the hotel is certainly plush, the atmosphere is relaxed. Go for brunch on Sunday and watch a live band perform, or visit on a Saturday as we did, and the restaurant will slowly pack out. Whether you’re here after catching a flick at the glitzy Curzon cinema, before drinks at Mr Lyan’s drinking den, or simply for a meal at Sea Containers - you can guarantee some dreamy views and carefully constructed menus.
Brunch is available at Sea Containers every Saturday and Sunday from 12-4pm.
