Stokey Garden & Flower Store — Restaurant in London

I came with high expectations but left dissapointed.

Given the church st location and mild weather, I expected it to be busy. I visited early afternoon around 2pm. Outside garden was packed, with tables quite close to one another. The one table available for a solo diner was right within the line of traffic, directly infront of staff standing area and cutlery table, it was not at all relaxing. I managed a few minutes before retreating inside to a table by the window.

Food: Unfortunately I found the food mediorcre. I ordered the vegetarian breakfast. The garlic mushroom and spinach that filled the majority of the plate had some flavour to it but everything else was mediocre ( pre packaged frozen hash brown and Vegetable 'sausage' were unremarkable with no discernible flavour)

On top of that, everything on the plate apart from the beans was luke warm. The Poached eggs looked visually unappealing , the whites looked rubbery, yolk overcooked barely runny. They were definitely pre cooked and an attempt made to rewarm them was unsuccessful. The grilled tomatoe looked nice but was just plain cold.

I was couldn't be bothered to raise this as the staff seemed rushed of their feet, so unfortunately I did not finish the plate..

Atmosphere: Throughout my dining experience seated inside all I could hear was constant noise from the kitchen, banging plates and glasses, staff loudly communicating. I understand it was busy time but there was also a member of staff sat by the till sorting through cutlery. The constant banging of silverware while people dined infront is inexcusable and does not make for a peaceful lunch.

A small plus, the staff were friendly and the aperol spritz was half decent. Howver the partially peeled sticker on the base looked unprofessional. It could have easily have been removed before serving.

The place looks nice as you walk in but it feels like style over substance. And unfortunately I wouldn't return. I've visited much nicer far more relaxing Mediterranean resturants for...

The food is definitely enjoyable, with good flavors and presentation. However, I experienced a couple of odd issues during my visit. On a 31-degree day, despite many shaded tables being available, I was initially seated in direct sunlight, which was uncomfortable. It would be more considerate to prioritize shaded seating under such conditions.

Additionally, I found the response to my request to remove the discretionary service charge disappointing. Having worked in hospitality across Australia, the United Kingdom, and North America, I am accustomed to tipping where wages are supplemented by gratuities, such as in the USA. When I politely asked about removing the charge, I was met with an unnecessarily defensive response. The server questioned if something was wrong with the restaurant and stated, as he walked away, “This is the service charge, we’re in the UK,” which came across as implying the charge was mandatory.

If staff are paid fairly in line with UK standards, I believe the discretionary nature of the charge should be respected without judgment. For future guests, please be aware that asking about the service charge may not be...

So we decided to try out the Sunday Roast here today. Unfortunately the don't have any Sunday Roast available. But it's alright. We still enjoyed the food.

We came without reservations but still got a table for 2 at the garden area. Later got moved indoors because we started getting 🥶 cold. It can be very busy during meal times.

Staff are very welcoming and friendly. Especially Jessica & Addin.

They remember us. But not sure if it was from the acoustic brasserie restaurant.

The menu needs updating for correct information. As the menu price is not the same when given the bill.

Toilet for disabled needs improvements as its not pleasing to the user.

Food wise.... I like the food we ordered as portions were perfect for the price. I love that it's not salty, just right for the taste.

The cauliflower soup of the day was to die for. The olives appetiser was 👌 perfect. The grilled lamb could be better if it was thicker. Looks like minute steak in my opinion. But everything else was just fine.

We will definitely come back for the Sunday Roast one of these days.

I recommend to...