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Londonderry

Europe

United Kingdom

Nestled in the crypt of St. John's Church in Smith Square, London, the Footstool Restaurant offers a unique dining experience that beautifully marries history with culinary delight. This charming venue, adorned with rustic red brick arches and a warm ambiance, is not just a place to eat; it's a hidden gem where the echoes of the past meet the vibrant pulse of modern British cuisine. Visitors are drawn not only by the delicious offerings but also by the enchanting atmosphere that makes every meal feel like a special occasion.

The menu at Footstool Restaurant is a celebration of British cuisine, featuring seasonal ingredients and a commitment to quality. One standout dish is the hearty British beef stew, slow-cooked to perfection and served with fluffy dumplings that soak up the rich flavors. Another must-try is the indulgent Rocky Road bar, a dessert that has garnered rave reviews for its perfect balance of chocolate, marshmallows, and nuts, leaving guests craving more.

Located in the heart of London, Footstool Restaurant is easily accessible and surrounded by a wealth of attractions. Just a short walk away, visitors can explore the historic Westminster Abbey or take a leisurely stroll along the Thames River. The restaurant serves as a perfect pit stop for those enjoying a day of sightseeing, offering a cozy refuge to recharge before continuing their adventures.

 It is renowned for its unique setting in a church crypt and its delicious British cuisine, particularly the hearty beef stew and decadent desserts.

 The restaurant offers a cozy atmosphere, excellent service, and a chance to dine in a historic venue, making it a memorable experience.

 Footstool Restaurant is open daily for lunch and special events, making it a convenient choice for both locals and tourists.

Whether you're looking for a quiet spot to enjoy a cup of coffee, a delicious lunch, or a unique dining experience steeped in history, Footstool Restaurant is the perfect destination. With its inviting atmosphere and delectable menu, it promises to be a highlight of your visit to London.

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It's a cafe in the crypt of a church turned music venue. And it's great. It's a good place to work or meet a friend for a cuppa. Or, as I did, it's a great space to relax before a talk. 

What I would like to rave about though is the baked goods. Well, technically I can't vouch for all of them except for the "Rocky Road" bar, but that one was out of this world. And really, I'm not easily impressed by baked goods as I always think I can actually do it better. This one though: divine!

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After a water tour on the Thames， we were ready for a nice lunch.   One person in our large party had eaten here previously and enjoyed it. Service was a little slow, but we were in no hurry. Intervals between courses were nicely spaced. Lunch took two hours and that was fine for us.

Soup was a large portion and could have almost made a meal by itself. Mains were rather large portions for lunch. Desserts were also good. Ambiance was excellent.

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After a fun morning of seeing the sights in Westminster, my fiancée and I were in great need of warming up on a snowy London day. Thankfully, Footstool Restaurant was close by in the crypt of St. John's Smith Square, a former church turned concert hall. The beautifully rustic restaurant with its red brick arches was the perfect place to savor a craft coffee and get an energy boost. We both enjoyed delicious Flat Whites and took in the historic surroundings. I hope to return in the future to try the delectable looking lunch buffet and to catch a performance upstairs in the music venue!

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Inside St Johns Crypt is a very pleasant restaurant which opens daily for lunch as well as for special events and performances in the church above. Under the umbrella of Tate Catering you can expect a consistently high level of quality food and service. 

There are many tables and the restaurant rarely fills up but it is still advisable to book ahead. The food is perfectly presented, delicious without exception and the kind of restaurant that if something is not entirely satisfactory, they will bend over backwards to rectify it.

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A hidden lunch place for those cheeky Friday lunch time glasses of wine, the food is filling and a nice change from the monotony of Pret and other sandwich shops in the area. The salads are quite good, you almost can't choose! It's also never packed, even on Fridays, so you're guaranteed some space.

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I've had lunch a couple times at Footstool's.  The food is good, well presented, and a friendly staff.  But let's be serious, the only reason people come here is to experience dining in an old crypt, just the idea gives one shivers down their spines and the giddiness of their youth.  Either that, or they're on their lunch break, rushing to get back to their bureaucratic paper pushing jobs at Westminster.

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Pleasant vaulted restaurant beneath a famous historic church. Lunch options include a prix fixe menu and a very efficient buffet. Good value and popular. My buffet lunch for two with water and coffees came to about £24 which I thought was pretty reasonable.

Footstool Restaurant in Westminster, London - Unique Crypt Dining & British Cuisine

Start your culinary journey with captivating starters

Begin with a selection of thoughtfully crafted starters that set the tone for an exceptional meal. From freshly prepared salads to traditional British bites, each dish promises a delightful taste of local flavors.

Savor hearty British classics served with a modern twist. The menu features generous portions, perfect for those looking to indulge in comforting yet refined dishes that showcase local ingredients and culinary traditions.

Sweet desserts to end your meal perfectly

Indulge in a selection of desserts that provide the perfect sweet finish. From traditional British pudding to innovative treats, each dessert is crafted to satisfy your craving for something delightful and memorable.

Refreshing drinks and specialty beverages

Complement your meal with a curated selection of drinks, from classic British ales to specialty coffees. Whether you seek a warming cup of coffee or a chilled glass of wine, our beverage list is designed to elevate your dining experience.

Discover the chef's seasonal specials that showcase the freshest local ingredients and innovative culinary techniques. Perfect for those looking to explore new flavors and enjoy a unique dining experience.

Savor delightful British cuisine at Footstool Restaurant in Londonderry's historic Smith Square. Experience authentic flavors—reserve your table now for a true taste adventure.

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