BRINKLEY's

Brinkley’s on Hollywood Rd Chelsea is a bit of an institution it seems. Packed to the brim on a Saturday night with a one in one out policy, the restaurant at the back still resembles an airy sanctuary. Until maybe 10pm, but we signed up for that. 

Restaurant at the back. Photo thanks to Brinkleys

The menu showed promise and seasonality with deep fried courgette flower, tuna tartare, beetroot & ricotta tortelloni, and seasonal English asparagus. The terrine of foie gras (£9.50) was a lot like pure foie gras served with beetroot, ginger and apple chutney, and worked well together. It was smooth and buttery with welcoming chutney sweetness.

Nikitas - the best Russian in town?

Nikita's, a Russian restaurant situated on Ifield Rd in Chelsea, is possibly the oldest such restaurant in London. Ifield Road, quite an affluent looking suburban street, has had its fair share of restaurants and residents, such as Tony Blaire in 1975. But Nikita's, for over 40 years has stood its ground, and proven popular with the cream of the Chelsea crowd, and hosted parties for the likes of Elton John, Richard Gere and The Beatles. It goes without saying that Nikita's reputation for entertaining may well be deserved!

On a Tuesday night, however, the restaurant was empty. Nevertheless, Russian music is playing through the speakers, the candles are lit, and the dining room, situated in the basement is oozing warmth and Imperial Russia. Ok, so maybe not 'Imperial' as such, but definitely what is perceived as "typical Russia" with deep red colours, and Khokloma painting on the walls. (This type of paining is usually found on wood handicraft, and is known for its vivid flower patters, red and gold colours over a black background, making things look glamorous). The atmosphere was there, it seems to live and breathe within the walls.