WatchHouse Somerset House — Restaurant in London

April 5, 2024:

If you’ve only ever enjoyed food & drink to go from the WatchHouse, then let me tell you first hand that their table service and take away may all originate from under the same roof, but the difference in experience is night and day.

Upon stepping into a sun-soaked, high vaulted room that ingeniously makes use of cot sides, and novel table positioning, so patrons have a physical barrier between themselves and others, yet slates to prevent against unwanted feelings of claustrophobia, coupled with curated slight lines of a table once removed or a guest’s side as opposed to head on views, WatchHouse’s table service is grand in and of itself. Not to mention the menu has far greater depth for obvious reasons.

But I digress, despite being overwhelmed by the abundance of choices, and nearly ordering something painfully average like a yoghurt, the hostess nudged me towards their truffle stracciatella ham and rocket on bread. Exquisite all round and a true embodiment of the WatchHouse’s essence, attention to detail, and culture sandwiched between lightly toasted, fluffy yet firm, slices of ciabatta bread.

And of course, to round out the experience, a full bodied Brazilian Mió Lanea double espresso. With notes of blueberry, panela, and cocoa need I say more? +0.035.

4.505 / 5 ⭐️

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April 1, 2024:

First and foremost, the WatchHouse is an establishment that really „pops“ regardless of the weather. From its classic yet chic architecture, to the nested seating areas that each possess their own unique charm and splendor, you can never really go wrong finding an excuse to stop by.

Anyway, during my latest visit I opted to try the grilled halloumi cheese w/ sweet chili sauce. It was delicious to say the very least. The chili sauce was just the right amount of sweet, and it complemented the halloumi exquisitely.

Although I must point out that I enjoyed this wrap warm, but only after asking for it to be toasted. I was about to be sent on my way with a unheated wrap, which in hindsight I imagine would have been far less enjoyable. So per the initial rating of 4.475, an additional 0.15 has been added due to the exemplary wrap, but a subsequent 0.20 has been deducted for almost being served this fantastic creation cold.

Regardless, the WatchHouse is by far in a way one of the best cafe eateries I’ve been in a long while. To fully round out this business‘s evaluation I’ll be returning in the not too distract future to enjoy the WatchHouse as a dine-in patron.

4.470 / 5 ⭐️

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March 29, 2024:

The pistachio & matcha cookie was a touch drier than expected. I’ll definitely be trying some of the wraps and sandwiches next time, and will update the star total accordingly.

None the less, the WatchHouse‘s outdoor seating is simply stunning and lends itself to a truly excellent...

Our lunch for four started out promisingly. Table service was swift and apparently efficient, with our order taken electronically. Sadly it was all downhill from there. What ensued would have been comical, if we hadn't been pressed for time. The first two dishes were served and we waited expectantly for the other two to arrive. After around twenty minutes, with no sign of the food, my partner inquired as to when it would arrive. We were told by the waiter that he would check with the kitchen. Another waiter turned up two minutes later with the bill. Bemusedly, we told her that half the party were still waiting for lunch. We then waited another fifteen minutes, but the other dishes singularly failed to make an appearance; neither did any explanation from the staff on duty, who completely ignored our table. I then went to the till to complain - something I've only done on one other occasion in London, and I've lived here for thirty years.

The waiter then left and we waited... again. Our original server then appeared and claimed that there was a problem with the system and our order never went through. Finally, after around 40 minutes of waiting, the two dishes arrived. The toast on my rarebit was burnt, but by that stage I was too hungry to make any further complaints.

After we finished a very hurried lunch, the waiter informed me that as a result of the inconvenience, drinks were on the house. It was a gesture that could have redeemed the experience slightly, yet even this was screwed up. I paid the bill and wasn't offered a receipt: after taking my seat at the table again, I realised that the bill seemed too high for the four dishes we ordered, sans drinks. I caught the attention of another waiter and asked him for the bill and whether the drinks were indeed on the house, as promised.

He left to consult with "the highest boss" - that's a verbatim quote - and then returned to inform me that apparently only the teas had been taken off the bill. The two cheapest drinks, naturally.

So that was our experience at the Watch House. The food was actually very nice (aside from the toast), but the level of service was abysmal and ruined what should have been a pleasant and fairly relaxed lunch. The cafe wasn't busy when we arrived at around 2:30-ish, so there was really no excuse for the catalogue of miscommunications, the 'too cool for school' indifferent attitude from some of the waiting staff, and litany of blunders. Bring back Fernandez and...

I can honestly say this is the best café I have ever been to. I have gone to this café essentially daily during my time living in London and it is close to perfect. Starting with the atmosphere, Watch House in Somerset House allows for the cozy yet productive air to be ideal for studying but also amazing for grabbing coffee with friends. The building itself is so beautiful and the amazing interior is stunning and in my opinion, it is one of the prettiest interiors to a café I’ve experienced.

What makes this Watch House even more special has everything to do with the phenomenal staff. Beginning at the bar: Ben, Diogo, and Sara not only all make delicious drinks (highly recommend their iced latte with oat milk and honey), but they also are so kind and caring. Each one of them consistently goes out of their way to make you feel comfortable and to ensure their drinks meet the quality you deserve (which they always do!)

I can honestly say everyone who works here has made this café experience special for me. To list a few: Germaine, Tilly, Georgia, Nadiyah, and May always make their customers feel relaxed, happy, and taken care of. They are all patient, kind, and willing to do the most to help your experience at Watch House be the best. The team at Somerset House is unique in the way they instantly elevate the customer experience and leave a lasting impression that invites customers in and ensures they enjoy their time at this café. For me, Watch House is without a doubt the best café in London and I recommend it fully and without hesitation.

Watch House’s stunning exterior and interior, the amazing drinks and food, all curated by the best staff (I only listed a few here but can honestly say I've had positive experiences with everyone who works here) makes Watch House at Somerset House unforgettable. If you are reading this still and have not yet been convinced, you just have to check it out for yourself, I promise you won’t regret it. So thankful for this café and will miss it dearly as I...