New London restaurant pops up for summer

This summer will see the arrival of an innovative pop-up concept to London in the form of The Summerhouse. 

Open for a six-month period between April and October, The Summerhouse will be idyllically situated along the banks of Little Venice’s canal and will consequently have a nautical theme, serving delicious seafood in a space reminiscent of a Hampton’s beach house.

Brought to London by leading dining operators, First Restaurant Group, The Summerhouse will be their second venue in leafy Maida Vale.  The popular Waterway is located just a few paces away and has a constant demand for outside tables during the summer months.  The Summerhouse will offer an additional 60 covers and is situated directly on the water. It will however, have its own very distinct identity in comparison to its sister venue.

The restaurant will have a light and airy décor, based around the large Long Island seafront houses that well-healed New Yorkers retreat to during the sweltering summer months. The walls will have a clean, whitewashed appearance and blue and white stripes, checks, glass bottles and jars will be used throughout to create an atmosphere of comfortable beachside chic.  The Summerhouse has its own boat mooring space so those making river trips can stop off and enjoy a leisurely riverside meal.  

Summer is the time to enjoy seafood and The Summerhouse will offer everything from fish and chips to mussels.  Starters will include; New England Clam Chowder, Prawn and Avocado Cocktail with Bloody Mary Sauce and Best Ever Popcorn Shrimp with Sweet Chilli Sauce.    Choose from a selection of mains such as Swordfish Steak in Ciabbata with Mango Salsa and Wasabi Mayonnaise, Grilled Halibut Darne with Béarnaise Sauce and the signature, The Summerhouse Fish Pie.  For those looking for a lighter lunch there will be a delicious selection of salads offered, as well as gourmet snacks offered in the separate bar area.  Round off the perfect summertime meal with some truly indulgent desserts including; Knickerbocker Glory, Pimms Jelly with Vanilla Ice Cream and Iced Summer Berries with Hot White Chocolate Sauce.

There will be an extensive and refreshing drinks menu at the Summerhouse.  Cocktails will include The Waterside Cooler, a heady blend of Havana Rum, Fresh Lime Juice, Orange Liqueur and topped with Ginger Beer and The Maida Mojito, a local adaptation of the classic cocktail made with Belvedere Vodka, Fresh Lime Juice, Sugar Syrup and Cranberry Juice.  A great international wine selection will be available, with a particular emphasis on rosé, white and sparkling wines.

Once closed in October the venue will become a dedicated events space until reopening next spring.  It will be ideal for any type of event, whether private or corporate. The space will accommodate up to 100 people and will offer great views and outside space.  First Restaurant Group Managing Director Mitchell Tillman says of the launch:

“We are really looking forward to opening The Summerhouse. Most pop-up restaurants only last for a matter of weeks but ours will be a six-month feature of the great British summertime.  We hope you come and enjoy the warm weather with us on the terrace this year and for many more years to come.”

The Summerhouse - Opposite 60 Blomfield Road, W9 2PD

Opening Hours: Mon-Fri 12pm-12am, Sat 10am-12am, Sun 10am-11pm