With spectacular views of Nelson’s nether quarters and cool interior the Portrait Restaurant at the National Portrait Gallery looks out over London rather nicely. Restaurants with something to look at out the window are few and far between after all

It’s a place to do brunch or lunch certainly and must be nice when the sun sets through the big glass windows that look almost West. Searcy is the driving force the Portrait Restaurant, which has actually been at the very top of the National Portrait Gallery for 10 years.

Swedish Head Chef Katarina Todosijevic is working closely with suppliers who adhere to good farming practices for meat and she uses local, seasonal and organic produce wherever possible. The menu changes daily and includes specialities such as Scotch Beef Carpaccio, Truffle Cheese, Pine Nuts & Rocket to start and Pollock, Marsh Samphire, Brown Shrimp & Sorrel Cream for main course. Guests can currently enjoy two courses and a classic ‘Portrait Bellini’ (Lychee Liqueur, Pomegranate Juice and Jeio Prosecco) for only £25.

Visitors can also have a drink at the Portrait Bar which offers an extensive Gin & Tonic cocktail list and sparkling cocktails such as the ‘Jasmine Blossom’ – a blend of Prosecco, Fresh Orange Pulp, Orange Juice, Absolut Mandarin & Homemade Jasmine Syrup. The wine list includes a selection of biodynamic, organic and unique varieties.

Alternatively, the Portrait Restaurant is a different kind of place to take Afternoon Tea. The ‘Portrait Afternoon Tea’, for £15.00, includes Sandwiches including Cheese & Apricot Chutney and Poached Salmon, Dill & Capers, a Scone with Clotted Cream & Preserve, Lemon & Ginger Biscuit, Victoria Sponge Cake and a pot of expertly chosen Tea or freshly brewed Coffee. This afternoon treat can also be upgraded to the ‘Laurent-Perrier Floral Champagne Afternoon Tea’ for £22.50.

For bookings at the Portrait Restaurant, call 020 7312 2490 or email [email protected]

The Portrait Restaurant serves a set menu on Monday to Friday from 11.45 – 14:45:

2 Course £20.00 | 3 Courses £25.00

The Portrait Restaurant serves a pre-theatre menu on Thursday and Friday evening from 17.30 – 18.30:

2 Course £14.50 | 3 Courses £18.50

The Portrait Restaurant serves a brunch menu on Saturday and Sunday from 11.30 – 15.00:

2 Course £22.50 | 3 Courses £27.50.

Opening Hours: Monday to Wed 10am – 5pm, Thursday & Friday 10am – 9pm, Saturday & Sunday 10am – 5pm.