D&D London has a fair few cool venues around London, and this restaurant sits directly overlooking the Thames at Southbank Centre. It has high ceilings and a modern finish, making it a very pleasant place to while away some time over drinks or dinner, with good company. It’s a tough call, but this is definitely one of my favourites. Mainly down to the fact that even though there are now more places to meet and drink around Waterloo, I still struggle to find the right place, and well Skylon isn’t overly expensive but gives you a special feeling when you want it.
And this was a special occasion as I hadn’t seen my best friend, Holly Golightly, for ages! So we met in this most convenient place for us both to get home from (overland and jubilee line) where we knew we could have a bottle of wine and relax to have a real catch up.
The décor is very neutral but suits the large space and there is a bit of added fun with neon bunting on a wall and statement flowers. We liked. The Skylon Grill where we sat had a nice atmosphere, it started off a bit quiet and then got buzzier as groups came in and others left to see their shows. Service was attentive, just on the right side of helpful and interested in your needs before being annoying. Although I am sure they wanted us to order more than we did!
Food is modern British style with a seasonal feeling (asparagus with hake) and comfort (burger, steak, risotto). We booked through OpenTable (offer for 2 courses at £20) but decided last minute to go for the regular menu. Lamb chop with garlic potatoes and gravy and Burger with Bloody Mary Ketchup (I didn’t taste any difference but that may be the vino!) with a side order of kale (nom!). Food was good although the burger wasn’t particularly special (I am sure you know about my burger senisitivites..!).
3 hours of wine food and lots of gossip later, we left feeling full, happy and caught up! I have been to Skylon previously on a business dinner for two; on that occasion we shared chateaubriand which didn’t disappoint. The bartenders also make some good cocktails at the lounge bar and the wine list is comprehensive with decent cheaper options too. Skylon is a very ‘easy’ place. Easy to get to from Waterloo, easy to choose some relatively good food and easy to drink the wine! Service is friendly and I am sure once you go, you will find a reason to go back. Skylon is definitely a keeper… next time probably checking out the cocktails a bit more!
