Pleasant discovery at the British Museum

The June monsoon of 2012. Never remember seeing so much rain and so it was off to the amazing (un)British Museum (nothing British there at all, it's all been stolen from the rest of the world) to redress the balance. What we in London can't always offer in terms of weather, we can instead boast in terms of museums. And the content there is amazing, the building, especially the grand foyer, is also magnificent. But the only problem with museums, that I have found over the years, is the lack of decent food (you either opt for uninspiring self-service buffet style cafes or get your food elsewhere). So it was an absolute delight to discover on the top floor of the British Museum The Court restaurant.

Word of warning though, you might have to queue or book.  But we turned up at 2ish which was an hour before they close their lunch service and happily waited no more than 5 minutes for a table. The open plan seating area has a mix of benches as well as tables and the kitchen is on the same level so you can see the chefs in action.  All very pleasant and easy on the eye. There is also a second work surface stationed by a lady who prepares the cold meats and other deli style platter offerings.

The menu has interesting choices with a definite Anglo-Spanish overtone. Some classics from both cuisines sit side by side. From a vegetarian perspective I'd stay away from the mains and head right into the 'Small Dishes, Boards and Bites' section of the menu.  

The bread with oil was excellent and served adequately as an hunger stifler until the fantastic Wild Mushroom on toast with manchego cheese and black truffle arrived, which was so good that I had it twice.

The lemon and oregano artichokes was fairly small in size but made up for it in terms of taste and quality. The non veggie amongst us also vouched for the quality of the food and it seemed to me that there's plenty to please everyone.

Dessert had to be sampled as we saw other guests tucking into very desirable Catalan brulee and it did not disappoint. 

They also serve afternoon tea from 3pm - 5pm though I'd say opt for a late lunch instead and enjoy this little gem.
Service was good and pricing ok. If you gave me the choice between  this restaurant or one of the downstairs' cafes, then I'd definitely say treat yourself to a top floor lunch that matches the splendidness of one London's finest museums.

COURT RESTAURANT TOP FLOOR BRITISH MUSEUM
Tel: 020 7323 8990