Serpentine Bar & Kitchen — Restaurant in London

Great location, perhaps one of the best in central London, right next to the Serpentine looking over its glistening lake, which in my case was during one early summer's late evening while it was bristling with families, just as the sun started to set. All of which should have provided the perfect setting and atmosphere for what should really also have been a lovely dinner.

Sadly though my expectations were far from met due to the poor and very laboured service, and, even more regrettably the very forgettable bland tasting food; one of their wood fired sourdough Pizzas. My Pizza was tasteless, modest in size, lacking toppings approaching in taste something you expect to be served at a canteen cafe, service station or weatherspoon. I was given an estimated time of 20 min for my food to be served at my table, but it took 50 min, and unless I walked a little distance to the open kitchen, thereby risking losing my window table or leaving my valuables unattended as I was dining alone, just to get an update on where my food was I wouldnt actually know if they had forgotten my order, or not; took that long! Even then they still first brought someone else's Funghi pizza (smothered in pesto) when I ordered an Hawaiian, when I pointed this out they took it back and brought mine, which when it did arrive finally, was not worth the nearly £20 I paid. The QR code based table ordering system is very flawed and clumsy on a number of levels so really needs to be reviewed.

Very disappointed with the food and service. This could be given the award for one of the best located London restaurant meets in my case anyway something like the worst actual food and dining experience. Not sure if mine was an outlier (looks like it wasn't) if it wasn't the owners and operators could and really should do something about improving the actual food and service here, because with a proper and better dining experience and with already one of the most picturesque views in London, this establishment could really be so much better. It should aim to be a proper food orientated restaurant providing a quality and memorable dining experience.

Instead, from the actual food it felt very much, to me anyway, to be just like the many other restaurants in central London, that are happy to simply rely on and 'milk' their presumably large contingent of one-off non repeat tourist customers who would be attracted to this place just because of its unique location. This large marquee restaurant with lots of natural light beaming in with it's stunning views in the iconic Hyde Park next to the Serpentine deserves so...

The good things The view is just wonderful. The birds are cute and the boats are cool. The garden is lovely and they have a bar outside. The lake is lovely. And they sell cocktails by the pitcher with clean cups etc. You can see the pizza actually being made from scratch which is very cool. I didn't have food but it probably would have been good.

Hygeine The view is lovely but the outside bench is on a steep slant so you cant sit straight, the birds go all over the outside tables even when people are eating which is not hygienic at all. So either they should clean the tables more regularly than they do or provide wipes so people can do it themselves. The toilets are not great or that clean, with one soap dispenser not working, no loo roll in at least one stall, no soap in another dispenser and are very small and hard to fit in without being pressed against the sanitary bins.

Drinks The Pimms has no fruit in it and for £10 a glass or £35 a jug you'd think you'd get some mint and berries at the least as this is what makes Pimm's. The £35 pitcher jug of Pimm's is filled firstly to the brim with ice so there is very little room for liquid (we asked for less ice and were told no because it had been 'measured'. But it is NOT 4 pints which is what it is supposed to be. It is just over 3 full pints. So felt pretty ripped off. It felt like more staff were needed too. It wasn't filled anywhere near the brim by staff and you have to buy it inside the bar, which is NOT explained. Instead the staff acted like we should have guessed this even though it is advertised outside. They also they had things like hot dogs advertised that then we were told weren't being served, again as if we should know that somehow. I really feel like you have a lovely spot and know it but there could be more cleanliness and even a little more equity on the drinks and a bit more garnish could elevate the quality of...

The Serpentine Bar and Museum, nestled in the heart of Hyde Park, is a unique cultural destination that beautifully combines art, architecture, and nature. The museum is a beacon for contemporary art, offering free exhibitions from both emerging and world-renowned artists. Its innovative design, including the famous Serpentine Pavilion, creates an inspiring setting that effortlessly blends with the surrounding park landscape. The museum’s two buildings, the original Serpentine Gallery and the modern Serpentine Sackler Gallery, make for an intriguing contrast, both architecturally and artistically.

Inside, visitors can explore a rotating lineup of exhibitions that challenge and redefine traditional art norms, making each visit a fresh experience. The current display thoughtfully complements the museum’s philosophy of pushing creative boundaries, and the gallery’s atmosphere is welcoming, with knowledgeable staff who are happy to engage in discussions about the artwork.

After enjoying the exhibitions, the Serpentine Bar and Kitchen offers a pleasant spot to relax. Located by the lake, the bar provides scenic views and a wide selection of refreshments. The menu includes a range of delicious snacks, pastries, and sandwiches, as well as coffee, tea, and wine. The tranquil setting is ideal for unwinding and discussing the exhibits, making it a memorable stop for art enthusiasts and casual visitors alike. The outdoor seating, overlooking the Serpentine Lake, is especially lovely on sunny days and gives a perfect perspective of the park’s natural beauty.

Overall, the Serpentine Bar and Museum offers an exceptional experience that combines cultural richness with a sense of relaxation, offering both thought-provoking art and a delightful setting to enjoy a...