Altitude 360

Upon arrival at Altitude 360, the viewing gallery on the 29th floor of Millbank, customers are treated to what is billed as “the hottest Bloody Mary in London”, an exceptional concoction, not because if its tear-inducing spiciness – which somewhat disappointingly, it isn’t - but because, made with tomato essence rather than actual tomato juice and served in a chic, pepper-rimmed martini glass, it is absolutely delicious.

This sleek, spacious room with its panoramic views over London and the muddy river Thames is not normally open for members of the public to drop in, instead its elegant white tiled interior and black leather furniture function as a backdrop for events of the corporate kind, weddings or other functions.

For this reason it’s a somewhat exciting opportunity to be able to gain access to what is undoubtedly one of the best views over the capital for a limited time only, thanks to a brunch package that is available every Sunday till the end of the year. The deal includes brunch, a Bloody Mary or Bellini on arrival, unlimited tea or coffee and an irreverent tour around the room pointing out London’s landmarks.

So far, so enticing, what is rather less appealing is the staggering £97 price tag. No wonder they hand out cocktails as soon as you set foot through the door.

Food is served as a buffet at three separate stations: two at opposite ends of the venue serve the savoury food while the other serves the desserts. Brunch items include eggs, bacon, black pudding and sausages; alternatively there is a choice of roast and vegetables.

The roast chicken is tasty, with crispy skin; the roast pork stuffed with lemon and thyme is equally flavoursome and tender and is served with good old fashioned crackling. Roast potatoes are perfect, crisped and golden on the outside and fluffy on the inside; aside from that the only other vegetable on offer is cabbage, both red and green.

In terms of desserts one can have a sweet crepe made up and filled with a variety of fruits; alternatively a slice of date loaf with toffee sauce drizzled over is fruity and with hints of ginger. A nutty crumble contains large, zingy plums, while the lemon tart is creamy and rich. A large bowl of fruit sits relatively untouched among all the naughty treats.

The cocktail and wine list are suitably smart and there is little doubt that sipping a G&T martini as the sun sets over the London skyline is a wonderful experience, but the food needs to consist of dishes that can’t be easily rustled up at home, and there needs to be more of it. With prices this high, it’s no wonder Altitude 360 remains the preserve of the corporate world.