Located behind the luxurious Marylebone Hotel is the entrance to 108 Brasserie. Meander down the charming cobbled Marylebone Lane and you cannot miss the impressive entrance, with its magnificent black obelisk heaters, deep awnings and expertly trailing ivy, diners can indulge in café culture inside and out, with elegance and warmth.

Inside the design excellence continues with Interiors by internationally distinguished design studio Alexander Waterworth. The ambience is chic, cosy and luxurious with a sophisticated bar area deeply upholstered banquette seating and booths for diners. The emphasis of the menu is French, with a focus on fresh, seasonal flavours. We went for lunch and indulged in a three course meal.

On arrival, our friendly waiter presented us with a delicious sparking Rose Mirabeau ‘La Folie’ NV from the Cote de Provence area. Crisp, fresh and transportive, along with the most sumptuous olives I’ve ever tasted, the marinated Nocellara olives are truly exceptional. The drinks menu is impressive, with paired wines and a collection of expertly sourced non-alcoholic alternatives.

Once seated we begin our feast with the light and refreshing Pea and asparagus soup, which arrived adorned with rainbow radish and cheese straw; perfect for the spring season. Along with this, we indulged in Chapel & Swan smoked salmon with caper berries, accompanied by a rich sweet Guinness bread and salted butter. All very satisfying.

For the main event, I opted for the Hake with sauce vierge, samphire and spinach gnocchi, plus a side of tenderstem broccoli. Beautifully presented, another spring favourite. The hake was cooked to perfection. My friend selected the hero Miso glazed black cod with stir-fried morning glory and sticky rice, which is always a winner.

After our generously portioned main courses, we gave way to any virtuous intentions and ordered one of the sensuous desserts. The Passionfruit and white chocolate parfait with butter biscuits and passionfruit gel was a real sweet treat, we shared this with a delicate fresh mint tea, the combination was beautiful.

For a lunch time dining, the menu is spot on, not too heavy and bursting with layered flavour. 108 Brasserie presents a warm, inviting atmosphere, with knowledgeable, welcoming staff. The menu is regularly updated with new culinary specials from indulgent breakfasts featuring a range of freshly-squeezed signature juice blends and organic eggs cooked in every way imaginable, to light lunches and three-course dinners for those who want to take advantage of the full dining experience.

The jazz bar welcomes guests who just want to drop by for a drink and beholds an extensive range of wines, champagnes and premium spirits. The talented bar team has drawn inspiration from the feelings of nostalgia sparked by each changing season with a collection of dazzling cocktails. This is place is a must-visit for those visiting Marylebone.

Address: 108 Brasserie, 108 Marylebone Lane, London, W1U 2QE

Written by Claire Bloom
Photography by Nyla Sammons