Step out of East Croydon station, past Boxpark, cross the road and you have arrived at Fern’s light, buzzing space, it’s half bar, half restaurant and from our vantage point upstairs it felt like we were sitting on top of Croydon. In fact, we could have been in Manchester or New York. Somehow the folks here have created something really sophisticated but authentic to the Cronx.

The decor is relaxingly stylish, staff are attentive and more than happy to accommodate our gluten-free and alcohol-free needs. We started with a couple of the signature cocktails: a Paloma and a Margarita. Both came Instagram-ready with bright colours, lightly dusted stunning glassware and straws to sip. They were exceptional, the best we’ve had in a long time – no wonder the bar was packed on our arrival. There are no amateurs here.

The menu is divided by Land, Sea and Plant, and we were suggested to order five to nine dishes to share. We went with the waitress’s recommendations and chose a mix-and-match across the specialities. We started with the colourful Sea Bream Ceviche which was delightful with tangy microherbs and a citrus kick, the perfect palate cleanser.

We followed with the Creamy Parmesan Polenta with green beans, chickpeas and fried sage, almost an entire tasty meal in itself. The showstopper was probably the Harissa Chicken served on a bed of Tzatziki bejewelled with Pomegranate seeds. Not too spicy, not too hot, just mouthwateringly good. The portions are really generous, and we struggled to eat the pork and beef meatballs as the sautéed baby potatoes were so good we finished them all.

We shared the Panacotta for dessert as it was a recommendation and came as beautifully presented as everything else. We highly recommend a visit if you’re down this way.

Address: Fern Croydon, 100a George Street, Croydon, CR0 1GP

Website: https://fernlondon.co.uk

Written by Claire Selby

Photos courtesy of Fern