Situated on the bustling Coldharbour Lane in Brixton, Walton Lodge was an Edwardian-era building erected in the 1880s. Originally serving as a commercial steam laundry, it was once a cornerstone of the community until operations ceased in 2014.
Five years later, it reopened its doors as The Laundry, a lovingly restored all-day eatery that honors its history while embracing the culinary influences of Antipodean duo Melanie Brown and Sami Harvey, who drew inspiration from classic European bistros, neighborhood bars, and cafés encountered during their travels.
Here, legacy meets modernity; the menu offers a seamless blend of genuine cooking with New World creativity. Whether in search of a casual brunch, a sundowner on the terrace, or a special evening meal, The Laundry delivers with its warm hospitality and a setting steeped in history.
Perhaps nothing epitomizes The Laundry’s commitment to tradition and community more than its Sunday Roast—a beloved British institution. Diners can indulge in premium cuts like the 28-day aged Hereford sirloin, served with creamed horseradish and a classic Yorkshire pudding, or opt for the half-roast boneless free-range chicken with garlic and chili butter. Each roast is accompanied by bottomless roast potatoes, glazed carrots, minted peas, and a rich gravy that ties the meal together perfectly.
To start, choose from appetizers like burrata with cantaloupe melon and Parma ham salad, prawn cocktail toast with spicy Marie Rose sauce, or heritage tomato carpaccio with green goddess pesto.
For dessert, options are equally enticing, with treats such as the warm chocolate chip cookie served with honeycomb ice cream or a refreshing Summermisù with layers of mango, coconut, and lime.
The Laundry’s drink menu is as thoughtfully curated as its food offerings. Spritz lovers can enjoy a range of lovely sips, from the classic Aperol Spritz to the more adventurous Pimms Spritz with cucumber, strawberry, and mint.
House cocktails like the Lychee Martini and The Laundry Negroni offer a creative twist on the classics, while the wine list features a variety of selections to suit every palate. Larger groups may favor a jug of Rosé Sangria, with lashings of rosé, hibiscus, and fresh strawberries.
Weather permitting, seats amidst the covered and heated al fresco terrace are coveted, while the dining room or a perch atop a barstool make for an intimate dining experience.
Timeless and contemporary, The Laundry is the ideal spot for a convivial yet upscale dine in the heart of Brixton.
Top Takeaways:
Location: Brixton, London
Address: 374 Coldharbour Ln, London SW9 8PL, United Kingdom
Cuisine: Modern European
Price Point: $$$
Takes Reservations: Yes – SevenRooms
The vibe: Expect to see groups of friends gabbing away enjoying sundowners and Sunday Roast on the al fresco terrace, and dates bonding over burrata and bubbly in the intimate dining room at The Laundry. This convivial all-day eatery is the best place to post up and round out any weekend.
Our favorite thing on the menu: Book a reservation on Sunday to try their Roast. Start with the Burrata and select the 28-day aged Hereford sirloin with creamed horseradish and Yorkshire pudding as the roast. Do not skip dessert; try the Affogato al Caffé or their famous Warm Chocolate Chip Cookie.
The attire: Smart Casual
Breakfast, Lunch, or Dinner: The Laundry is an all-day neighborhood restaurant, café, and bar open Monday through Friday from 8:30 AM, and Saturdays and Sundays from 10:00 AM. Saturday Brunch runs from 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM, and Sunday Roast is from 1:00 PM – 6:00 PM.