Although The Gate’s Hammersmith flagship is one of the longest-standing vegetarian restaurants in London, it is, quite frankly, of a high enough standard to be judged on its merits as a place to get good food…
…rather than just good greenery.
The space itself draws a well-balanced line between the unpolished postmodern cool of its double-height ceiling and soaring studio windows, and polished fine-dining of its smart wooden tables and eye-catching artwork. And talking of good greenery, this Gate leads into a hidden garden for a little al fresco dining, too.
Always international in its approach, but changing with the season, the current menu offers dishes like crispy courgette flowers stuffed with sweet potato and pine nuts; a Thai red curry dotted with plantain and shiitake mushrooms; and creamy chipotle mushrooms with polenta cake and grilled courgette ribbons. For dessert The Gate serves a rather indulgent blackberry cheesecake served with a spoonful of tart fruit compote; a show-stopping sticky date pudding with honeycomb ice cream and butterscotch sauce; and a rather beautiful tiramisu.
Head down to The Gate on the weekend, you can score yourself a little brunch, courtesy of a menu with banana and berry pancakes, Huevos Rancheros, and even a Full English with facon rashers and hash browns. And while you could wash all that down with a fresh fruit smoothie… you could equally opt for a raspberry bellini, or a marg made with jalapeño infused tequila.
Which they’ve somehow managed to keep meat-free, too.
NOTE: The Gate Hammersmith is open daily. They have another branch in Islington. You can book a table, and find out more, HERE.
The Gate | 51 Queen Caroline Street, London W6 9QL
Like veggie grub? Get a look at our favourite vegan breakfasts in London