Battersea has come along way since I first moved close by to this part of town. A few years ago or so, south-west London really wasn’t known for its food – apart from a handful of classics. Now however it holds some of London’s best and most exciting restaurants – but it’s still very young. One notable area in particular which has changed significantly is Lavender Hill. A long stretch of a road which separates Battersea from Clapham. A street once lined with take-outs and fast food, it’s now become a mecca for foodies looking for something exciting off the beaten track – one of those being The Social Pantry.
You may recognise the name Social Pantry for something else and you’d be right. The brand is very well-known across the capital as being one of the leaders in catering services. Founded and owned by the fabulous Alex Head, this remarkable (and very young) women has created a business which is known across London for its quality, innovative party or event pieces which go far beyond the mediocre pineapple on sticks. Alex quit further education at an early age and decided entrepreneurship was for her with a sandwich business from her bicycle at the tender age of just 15 – I couldn’t even imagine thinking anywhere along those lines myself at such a young age. It’s impressive and for me, very inspiring.
Food wise during our evening it was a rather lavish affair. A beautifully laid table, lit by candles which we all circled around, tucking into the addictive canapés and a chilled glass of bubbles topped up rather generously – they saw me coming I think. Once we demolished all of the lovely canapés passing around the room we sat down and delved into a delicious meal. Really, it was. We started with an oh-so fresh white crab with charcoal sourdough bread, thyme, lemon and chilli. A simple, but perfectly executed plate of food.
Our main course didn’t disappoint either and gave me even more reasons to realise I need the Social Pantry to cater my life. If I ever win the lottery I want these guys following me around with a tray constantly full of canapés – or huge chunks of meat in this case. 12 hr slow-roasted ox cheek was a show stopper. It threw out all the stops and then chucked some celeriac mash at it, then drizzled it in a rich, meaty gravy and flicked a few sprigs or coriander over the top. Absolutely delicious.
So what about dessert? Well, it was again – delicious. In true Foodaholic fashion I got through just a tiny bit of the wine share (I’ll leave a tiny bit to your imagination) and the food was so filling and rich here I’ll admit I was struggling to put everything away by this point – but of course I finished every last bite. Orange blossom & vanilla panna cotta, pomegranate and edible flowers. Another stunner to grace the table. A zesty granita refreshed our palate halfway through too.
Sent home by the lovely team with a bunch of fresh daffodils, protein ball, juice and the most amazing guacamole (of sorts) it was sadly, time to go home. Social Pantry may be an amazing catering company but we mustn’t forget – they have a fabulous cafe on Lavender Hill serving some very serious food indeed. It may not be complicated or riddled with stars or accolades, but the food here is excellent and the space is gorgeous. I’ve also heard the coffee here is rather special.
