The Game Bird

£25 / British, Cocktail bars, Vegetarian options

The Stafford, 16-18, St James's Pl, London

Awards

Thanksgiving Luxe 2024

Opening hours

12PM-9PM

Sunday 12PM-9PM
Monday 12PM-9PM
Tuesday 12PM-9PM
Wednesday 12PM-9PM
Thursday 12PM-9PM
Friday 12PM-9PM
Saturday 12PM-9PM

Unmatched Service in Hidden London Gem

Nestled at the heart of a quaint mews, just a stones’ throw from Green Park, The Game Bird offers a charming escape from bustling high streets. Upon entry, one is enveloped by an understated elegance that never oversteps into pretentiousness, while a favorable nod must be given to the decor—tastefully modern with a hint of classic allure. During my experience, I was struck by the instinctive attentiveness that the staff exhibited; it's as if they anticipated needs before they even crossed your mind. Their balance, managing to remain unobtrusive yet ever-ready, is a finesse not often encountered. A minor hiccup surfaced regarding misuse of fragrance—a specific house staple—but it was easily overshadowed by other redeeming attributes.

As the dishes began to arrive, cheeks were swiftly turned from any preconceived notions of mediocre British fare. Everything we tasted demonstrated a creative elevation of classic dishes—from tender sirloin steak portions trimmed carefully for the utmost pleasure, to a divine Duck Wellington composed as elegantly as it was executed. While a few minor missteps flavored the service here and there—like an occasional labored bite—they hardly tainted the experience. And though the vegetarian options were notably limited, the soul of British classics endured vibrantly throughout. Even beyond its culinary prowess, The Game Bird impresses with an air of storytelling; tales woven together through their White Mouse dessert onward to the lovingly curated wine pairings. An enchanting rendezvous in timeless refinement, fittingly accentuating everything one might yearn for from the quintessential English sophistication. — Nigel Gourmet