Old Queen Street Café

The food

Executive Chef Elliot Spurdle, formerly of The Wolseley and The Delaunay, runs a seasonal British menu inspired by the traditional London café. There are breakfast and all-day menus, desserts, cocktails and a wine list, so it works equally for a cooked breakfast before the Abbey opens or a long lunch. The style is unfussy British cooking in comfortable surroundings rather than formal fine dining, and the drinks list covers everything from a morning coffee to an evening cocktail.

Timing your visit

Weekdays are its busiest time, as it feeds the Westminster crowd. Friday has an earlier kitchen close, and dinner reservations are not taken from Friday to Sunday, so weekend visits are best for breakfast or lunch. Book online or by phone. If you are planning a weekday evening meal, book ahead, as tables fill with people from the surrounding offices and government buildings.

Events and nearby

The second floor hosts private events for up to 40 seated or 100 standing. Westminster Abbey is a three-minute walk, St James's Park is at the end of the street, and Big Ben and the Palace of Westminster are close by, so it slots neatly into a day of sightseeing. The townhouse setting gives it a domestic, less touristy feel than places on the main roads.

Highlights

• Georgian townhouse in Westminster
• Seasonal British brasserie cooking
• Chef formerly of The Wolseley and The Delaunay
• Breakfast through dinner on weekdays
• Private event space for up to 100

Good to know

• No dinner bookings Friday to Sunday.
• Nearest Tube: St James's Park.
• Book online or on 020 3005 2320; call for larger groups.

Frequently asked questions