The Surprise is a charming gastropub in Chelsea that lives up to its name. Tucked away in arguably one of the prettiest streets in the neighbourhood, it feels like the hustle and bustle of the King’s Road is miles away. For a moment, you could be forgiven for thinking you were standing outside a pub in the Cotswolds. Pretty gardens, cottages and a small church surround The Surprise. You can spot the pub from afar with its red striped awnings and greenery. When the weather is good, the hip Chelsea folk cavort on the wooden benches or cosy up inside next to the shelves of board games and leather-bound books. But it’s not just the atmosphere at The Surprise that’s enticing, the food is too. The cuisine is modern and British, and the ingredients are all sourced locally. And it’s best served with the Surprise Ale, the restaurant’s own amber bitter.
6 Christchurch Terrace
SW3 4AJ London
phone: +44 20 3837 4600
daily 12pm - 11pm