The National Café at the National Gallery has been something of a hidden treasure: just around the corner from the frontage of the National Gallery on Trafalgar Square, its discreet entrance means that most pedestrians stride past without realising it exists.
And that’s a shame: just a few paces inside and you encounter a high-ceilinged and comfortable room which proved cool on a hot day, and quiet also – conversation is happily possible!
And, with Peyton and Byrne in charge, it’s not only an excellent location for business or pleasure meetings, but the food is worth checking out.
Bespoke breakfasts
Accordingly, H&C News recently took advantage of the opportunity to test the new breakfast menu, said to be filled with healthy and hearty options to help start your day the right way.
The fresh blended juices include a super green juice, filled with fresh fruit, vegetables and the all-important antioxidants. For the more conservative – us, in this instance – the orange juice was excellent (not always the case in some establishments).
But we moved swiftly on to the options offered by the new build your own breakfast,allowingcustomers to start with 6 items of their choice (you can add more).
Do you prefer your bacon maple or dry cured? Both proved excellent. And Cumberland, pork or beef sausages? We checked the first two, both very good. And the Stornoway and Lancashire black puddings were outstanding on our visit: fully flavoured, but not dry, as is so often the case. And, of course, you can decide on the style of egg…
Extras include homemade baked beans – so much more interesting than the ‘standard’ supplied with most cooked breakfasts – as well as potato and chive hash. We recommend both.
More options
If a full National breakfast isn’t what you want, or you’re visiting the area at other times of the day, you should take a look at the options offered by the National Café.
Whether it’s for breakfast, lunch or dinner, you will enjoy the excellent location, the range of good food choices, and the very civilised ambience.
The National Cafe, The National Gallery, Trafalgar Square, London, WC2N 4DN
For more information click here