Our concise guide to our favourite places to grab a coffee, cocktail, lunch or dinner around Chelsea during the Flower Show

Peggy Porschen on Elizabeth Street decked out in fabulous florals all ready for Chelsea Flower Show and (right) Ridley's very own Heidy enjoying café life in our Ridley London floral Sammy maxi skirt in the fuchsia bohemia studio print and pink Alicia top

Without a doubt, the Chelsea Flower show is probably my favourite occasion within the busy British summer social season, and something I like to make a real day out of. Apart from dressing up in a favourite statement floral print summer dress, a post-show cocktail and dinner out with friends are always high on my list. Especially as Chelsea is blessed with some of the most fabulous places to drink and dine, all within easy walking distance of the show. Here's our list of our favourite places to meet and discuss our herbaceous border plans and all the fabulous flowers and of course floral dresses we saw at Chelsea! But make sure you book in advance to avoid disappointment. 

 

The Mirabeau Terrace at Wild by Tart

Looking for the perfect post-show sharpener? Our friends at Mirabeau Rosé and Wild by Tart have teamed up on this exciting Chelsea Flower Show activation that promises creative cocktails, fabulous food and of course a glass or two of our favourite summer tipple! Located within a 15-minute walk of the show in a converted former power station just off Elizabeth Street, this cool neighbourhood eatery has built an enviable reputation for its fabulous food, striking design and sparkling atmosphere. The menu is full of big flavours, sustainable, seasonally and locally sourced ingredients all cooked on open charcoal grills and in wood-fired ovens with real culinary flare. Definitely worth the slight detour. Visit the Wild by Tart website 

3-4 Eccleston Yards, London SW1W 9AZ  T: 020 3848 6240

 

Vardo

Housed within a state-of-the-art, architecturally designed pavilion located at Duke of York Square, roughly a 5 to 10-minute walk from the show. Vardo has been a favourite of ours for some time now. The eclectic menu is inspired by the owner's love of travel and is full of exciting and exotic flavours highlighting low and slow cooking techniques, combined with an emphasis on plant-based, healthy and nourishing options. The cocktails are amazing and there's a fabulous roof terrace with panoramic views of the Duke of York Square and Saatchi Gallery beyond. Visit the Vardo website

9 Duke Of York Square, London SW3 4LY  T: 020 7101 1199

The Ivy Chelsea Garden & Ivy Asia

Located a bit further down the King's Road, the Ivy Chelsea Garden and new Ivy Asia are definitely worth a visit, but probably in a taxi, unless you fancy a bit of a stroll. While the food is good (think Ivy cafe menu - modern British café-style classics, with good vegan and vegetarian options), the vibe, people watching and classic cocktails is really what this place is all about. The new Ivy Asia next door, and connected by a secret passage, is where we'd recommend eating, especially if you're a fan of Asian food. The menu is Pan Asian from Chinese classics like crispy duck and dim sum to sushi, all served with a modern theatrical twist in the most floral and opulent of settings. Not cheap, but definitely good. Visit the Ivy Asia website

201-203A, King's Rd, London SW3 5ED. T:020 4537 2710

 

Bibendum Oyster Bar

If you're looking to inject a spot of romance into proceedings, You can’t fault this luxurious seafood bar in the foyer of Chelsea’s historic Michelin Tyre garage. Again probably more of a taxi ride away, It’s a lovely setting with an intimate yet relaxed atmosphere, straight off the streets of Paris. Original ceramic depictions show Michelin tyre car racing victories from the 1900s. The food is exceptional and includes a small menu of French classics served alongside the best crustacea in London, and a great wine list...although it comes at a price! Visit Bibendum Oyster Bar Website

Michelin House, 81 Fulham Rd., London SW3 6RD. T: 020 7581 5817

 

Peggy Porschen Elizabeth Street & Kings Road 

 

If you're thinking of a special post-Chelsea Flower Show tea, Peggy Porschen is well worth a visit with two branches within easy reach of the show. Expect incredible picture-perfect Cordon Bleu pastries, delectable sandwiches, light fluffy scones and a real emphasis on summertime flavours, all served up in the most feminine and fru-fru of settings. The focus here is on quality ingredients, traditional baking methods and creative flavours combined with beautiful design and exactly the range of unique floral teas and glasses of bubbles you would hope for a perfect tea out with girlfriends. Visit the Peggy Porschen website

116 Ebury St, London SW1W 9QQ  T:020 7730 1316

219 King's Rd, London SW3 5EJ  T: 020 7730 1316

 

Amar Café

If you're passionate about good coffee and good ethics, then Amar is definitely the cup for you. tucked just off the north edge of the Kings Road on Chelsea Green, and within a ten-minute walk of the Chelsea Flower Show, this exciting and growing independent is well worth a visit. All coffee is directly Sourced from single farms, states and cooperatives in Colombia, putting the profit back into the producer's hands. From an extraordinary focus on the details to interesting varietals and methods of processing coffee, everything is geared towards delivering an 'unparalleled experience of taste'.  These guys are definitely re-inventing the on-the-go coffee experience. Visit the Amar Café website

15 Cale St, London SW3 3QS  Open 7:30am - 6pm Monday to Friday

 

 

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Ridley London's new collection of summer holiday dresses is available to purchase online and in Ridley's Barnes store. Celebrate your individuality this season with a unique piece that's individually crafted to flatter from your choice of any of our stunning new printed floral or solid silks or cottons. Or call us to arrange a virtual fitting: 

Ridley London, 82 Church Road, Barnes, London SW13 0DQ T: 01730 823097