Dining in South London has (unfairly) often been categorised as somewhat lacking in comparison to the delights that can be found elsewhere. This ignores such perennial favourites as Wandsworth’s Chez Bruce and, increasingly, Adam Byatt’s Trinity, situated in the Old Town area of Clapham. Having won awards since its opening as varied as Time Out’s best local restaurant and the AA London Restaurant of the Year, there can be little doubt that Trinity has established itself as one of the city’s leading destinations. The fact that it’s full every night has to be testament to this success.
Byatt, who combines high technical ability with easy and personable charm (a combination more unusual than it might sound in a restaurateur) is rightly proud of the way in which his restaurant offers something for everyone, whether it’s a simple and straightforward prix fixe menu or a more elaborate five-course tasting menu, the latter of which showcases such delights as roast fillet of Cornish sea bass with clams and blood orange and a daringly innovative venison Wellington.
The staff do a sterling job of coping with a busy, buzzy dining room, managing to keep friendly and, above all, welcoming at all times, and recommending some breathtakingly bold and clever drink pairings, such as ‘pear champagne’ with English cheese. The number of couples having a romantic evening here is testament to the success of this splendid operation.
All Quintessentially members dining through April will receive a complimentary seasonal Bellini, as well as a chance to purchase a signed copy Adam’s first book, How To Eat In, at £18, which is being published on April 15th.
4 The Polygon, Clapham, SW3 www.trinityrestaurant.co.uk
