Perfect for Dinner with Friends: The Botanist

5 years on and The Botanist still remains the heart and soul of Sloane Square. It’s buzzy bar atmosphere serves the finest cocktails to the local international nouveau set, wearing their latest purchases from the nearby A3217, or better known as the King’s Road. Rag and Bone, Hugo Boss, Tiffany’s, you name it the pap goggles are on and the place is alive.

Despite the recent opening of Colbert next door, the venue has continued to thrive, in fact it has probably helped bolster the number of enthused clientele that walk through the door.

However, with its increasing popularity over the years, prices too have been risen, but for good reason. The Botanist used to be confused as a glorified pub, but that reputation was short lived. Organically influenced by Sir Hans Sloane, The Botanist’s menu provides a selection of fresh produce. I happen to know that even the owners take so much pride in this, one of the entrepreneurial brothers, Tom Martin, still personally collects the oysters himself first thing at the market.

During my stay, I sampled their latest offering of king scallops, chorizo and saffron risotto cake- heavenly. This was happily washed down with a recommended Rose Petal cocktail (Pinky Vodka, Benedictine, Rose Syrup and topped with Joseph Perrier) by our lovely waitress. With high expectation the Wiener Schnitzel followed, which, to be honest, was quite rich and I could definitely feel the weight when walking home. Perhaps something lighter like the grilled lobster or the venison loin might have been a wiser choice. One dish that is renowned at The Botanist is the Chateaubriand 600g for two people coming in at £58, this definitely cuts the mustard.

Puddings are always something of a treat and their chief is always one to impress. Finishing supper off with Crème brûlée and millionaires shortbread was the perfect end to the evening.

Sumptuous cocktails, a fashionable crowd and top quality cuisine, The Botanist is still the must go to bar/restaurant in Sloane Square….how would I know? Well I use to work there all those years ago.

For more information, visit The Botanist

By George Askew

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