Review on The Dolphin
There's been a Dolphin pub in Sydenham since the middle of the eighteenth century, although the present building was designed in mock-Tudor 'brewery' style during the 1930s. Following an extensive refurbishment, it re-surfaced as a gastropub in 2006, and now has the added bonus of a stunning formal garden - a real 'urban oasis' complete with sculptures, fountains, walkways and apple trees (which also provide the kitchen with fruit).
The kitchen gets most of its ingredients from Borough Market, although fish is from Billingsgate and meat comes from Oxfordshire. Menus follow the seasons, so you might kick off with chestnut and winter greens soup or potted shrimps with toasted rye bread. After that, try - say - braised lamb shank with colcannon or sea bass with crayfish and dill risotto; otherwise, or opt for one of the 'sharing' dishes (cauliflower and date tagine or chicken and chorizo skewers, for example). Cheeses are from Neals Yard and the list of desserts might include apple and plum crumble or chocolate fondant with cinnamon ice cream.
Cuisine
Gastro pub
Restaurant Opening Times
Lunch: 12.30 - 3.30pm (12.30 - 9.30pm Sat) (12.30 - 4.00pm Sun)
Dinner: 6.00 - 9.30pm Mon-Fri (5.00 - 9.00pm Sun)
Accepted credit cards
Visa, Master Card
