Whether you classify it more like a late breakfast or early lunch, brunch, for many, is best enjoyed without limits. Whilst one could question whether or not it is ever necessary to be served an infinite amount of food and beverages as part of a single meal, the opportunity for such over-indulgence has now taken a firm rooting within society to the point where it is offered by establishments, virtually everywhere in London.
Southwark is yet another area of the capital that has found itself inundated with establishments that offer bottomless brunch. From the lofty heights of the area’s tallest buildings that offer sweeping views of the River Thames and London’s skyline, to more low-key, off-the-beaten-path establishments that strive to make brunch an all-out celebration, these are the best picks when it comes to all things brunch.
OXBO Bankside
Set within the Hilton London Bankside, OXBO brings one of the more upmarket brunch experiences south of the river. As one might expect from a Hilton, the space strikes an impressive balance between function and comfort, comprised of dark woods, navy leather banquettes and copper accents that give a subtle nod to the building’s industrial surroundings.
The bottomless brunch offering here is, in a word, generous, with four courses and two hours of unlimited refills for bottles of fizz. Beginning with picky bits from the Chef’s Traders Table, the afternoon progresses through classic brunch staples such as eggs (cooked every way there is), waffles, pancakes, and finishes on slow-cooked short-rib of beef, baked cod, and potato gnocchi. The bottomless options include prosecco, red and white wine or signature punch cocktails, for a truly decadent affair.
Sea Containers Restaurant
Positioned along the Thames with direct views of St Paul's, Sea Containers is a glamorous setting for brunch. Curved booths made from a fine mustard velvet and polished brass fixtures are in contrast with the more marine-inspired details. The restaurant sits on a galley level overlooking the river, a relaxing spot to enjoy the view and the delights of a very well put-together brunch menu.
Their bottomless brunch menu offers a choice of two or three courses alongside 90 minutes of free-flowing Grey Goose Bloody Marys, Moët & Chandon champagne, or Bramble apple martinis. Course options include classic staples such as buttermilk pancakes, fried chicken and waffles, as well as more elevated options like New England Lobster rolls. Delicious food with copious amounts of fizz to wash it down and an ambient setting to enjoy whilst dining make Sea Containers one of the hardest brunch places to beat.
Oblix East at The Shard
For those in search of some of the best views in the city to pair with a brunch experience which is quite literally elevated, the Oblix East delivers just that from the 32nd floor of The Shard, London’s tallest building. An opulent space with smoky glass, stone counters, dark woods and leather that work well to frame the panoramic skyline, Oblix offers the kind of bottomless brunch experience that many diners dream of.
The weekend brunch option (aptly named limitless) comes with an option to add bottomless champagne, Bloody Marys or brunch martinis, all served over a two-hour window with three courses of delicious brunch fare. Starters arrive sharing-style and include continental staples such as burrata with datterini tomatoes, beef carpaccio and charred sourdough. Guests have the option to choose from mains such as miso-glazed cod, truffled eggs royale, or a wagyu beef burger with aged cheddar. This is not the place for a casual brunch, but an opportunity to enjoy a landmark meal that begs to be repeated each week as part of a new tradition.
Bala Baya
For something very different from the traditional association with brunch, Bala Baya offers a Tel Aviv-inspired brunch that is unlike any other in the city. Their weekend offering gives diners the chance to enjoy bottomless bellinis, prosecco or watermelon mimosas accompanied by a set menu that includes dishes like Iraqi laffa with lamb kofta, shakshuka with amba tahini, and their signature “boorek”, a crisp pastry filled with egg, cheese and spinach.
The flavours are bold but precise, and desserts such as malabi rose pudding or cardamom chocolate mousse keep the palate overjoyed. The atmosphere is upbeat and welcoming, whilst the post-industrial interiors of exposed red brick and classic Levantine glassware and plates deliver on charm and setting in spades. Particularly popular with vegetarians or those looking for a less super calorific brunch experience, Bala Baya is one of London’s greatest alternative brunch dates.
Lantana
Set just behind Borough Market, the space at Lantana is breezy and pared-back. The bottomless option allows diners to add free-flowing mimosas or prosecco to any brunch dish, with options that range from the indulgent to the health-conscious. Buttermilk chicken and kimchi waffles, coconut and ricotta pancakes, or a salmon poke bowl with avocado and pickled ginger are all beautifully presented and generously portioned.
Coffee is a strength here too, and their signature cold brew is a smart choice if you're balancing bubbles with caffeine. While it's less formal than others on this list, Lantana still caters to an audience who expects quality, both in terms of the menu and the setting, from their brunch date. Concrete flooring, whitewashed walls and natural timber accents make it a stylish yet unpretentious backdrop for a brunch that takes its food seriously, close to one of London’s most popular street food spots, and is a welcome alternative for the area.
