After traipsing around the busy West End during London Fashion Week, we desperately needed some rest and refreshment. And at the end of Marylebone Lane we found an oasis of calm, class and chic at The Pantry at 108.
It stands on a bold corner plot – with bright modern artworks on its façade. There is a discrete club-like side entrance through flower baskets and over black and white tiles on Bulstrode Street.
As you enter, there's a traditional pantry tucked to one side at the rear – bedecked with delicious looking cakes and other tempting confections. The staff, who wear smart grey traditional uniforms, greeted us quietly and showed us to a table.
Our large bright red curved button-studded bench was set into a large bay window with a table and two leather wing chairs in muted mustard around a table. The atmosphere was quiet and calm (although there was some soothing chill out jazz playing softly) and although there were a few other diners there were plenty of available tables. The impressive but subtle flower arrangements were in delicate cream. The sage walls and assorted benches and chairs in bright jewel colours (and that lovely teal colour) and all the space just reeked of understated modern English sophistication.
The large floor area is broken up with a variety of different levels and separate spaces but the overwhelming feeling is that of peace from an almost heavenly light from all the windows. Even the most ardent fashionistas would approve. Yet somehow it still felt homely, intimate and relaxing.
We took advantage of a LFW special offer which for £12.50 a person resulted in a not-too-naughty kind of small tasting plate with a selection of four different gluten free cakes (banana and pomegranate was moist, cocoa and blueberry was just chocolatey enough, apple and date was granular and chewy although the walnut slice was our favourite) and five small macaroons (orange, chocolate, coffee, peach, strawberry with a compote filling) as well as a glass of English sparkling wine which was perfectly chilled. The LFW offer lasts until Sunday 27th September.
We wished that we had opted for the afternoon tea when we saw what was being enjoyed by some fellow guests – the layered cake trays were plain but adorned with beautiful finger sandwiches, scones and pastries (£28 – and they do a healthy version which is low on sugar and diary and an indulgent version at £38 which includes rose champagne and strawberries. All with gluten free options).
It would certainly be a popular modern alternative to tea at establishments such as The Ritz and Fortnum and Masons, without sacrificing that traditional English feel.
The lunch menu offered something for everyone – even those watching their figures – there were soups, salads, club sandwiches. And the prices were incredibly reasonable.
There’s also a Juicery operation here too with a variety of healthy and interesting drinks from £7.50. Fitness folk take note that you can add protein to these drinks.
http://108marylebonelane.com/
