Marylebone’s The Cavendish restaurant is the right amount of everything. It’s a hip gastropub for a Happy Hour cocktail, a smart lounge for a nightcap, and an elegant spot for a special meal. I particularly recommend it for a sunny, afternoon. If you find yourself wandering the Marylebone High Street shops around lunchtime, stop into The Cavendish for one of the most impressive lunch specials around. At just £18.00, the gourmet chefs prepare you two over-sized courses. You leave full and happy which is pretty rare for a discounted lunch deal.

We did not have a reservation, but they had plenty of room to accommodate us for our impromptu business lunch. We sat upstairs at a bright and warm table by a window. The boutique decor and finishing touches were very impressive. The waitstaff was polite and  always available, yet not over-bearing. The food was delicious.

 

(Beautiful butter at The Cavendish)

 

Now, here comes the caveat. The Cavendish has a reputation of being over-priced. This is why I am highlighting their lunch specials because it really is a great value. Previously, I wasn’t as impressed due to the price, and also the amount of unneeded fuss that goes into justifying those prices. While finishing a scampi dish tableside is a cool novelty, is it really necessary? Once, I was feeling a little down for missing the stateside Kentucky Derby. In true Derby fashion, I ordered a Mint Julep at the bar. They casually asked if I wanted the premium version which I accepted, not realizing that it came with a premium price tag of £20.00! That over-priced Julep ended up taking twice as long to make. I’ve expressed my frustrations with waiting for craft cocktails before, but I thought paying more was supposed to get you things faster? Not here.

But, aside from those small grievances, The Cavendish is still a cool restaurant in a great area. I will be back for their lunch offer with colleagues, in for cocktails with friends, and there for dinner with my husband. Maybe I’ll see you there.

(Green never looked so good at The Cavendish)

(A few of my favorite things at The Cavendish)

 

The Cavendish
35 New Cavendish Street
London W1G 9TR