The Cross Keys Review: Seasonal Gastropub Dining in Chelsea

You know I do love a good gastropub. Affordable wines, quality beers on tap and usually some of most amazing bar snacks to nibble on. Thankfully all of that goodness is within easy reach to me, because my local The Cross Keys has all of that – plus a little of the old school Chelsea rah. Crowd wise I’m not gong to lie, it depends if you’re used to the Chelsea youngsters – they’re loud, brash and competitive. Thankfully I’m far too used to them, so it goes un noticed – but for some it may not. If you can see past that and settle into the restaurant at the back then you’re in for a treat, full of delicious food and copious amounts of wine.

Inside it’s lovely too. Washed timber, gorgeous leather booths, industrial lighting and a conservatory ceiling which illuminates the whole dining room. For a very busy pub, service is spot on too. Attentive, but not intrusive. We started our meal with a cheeky guest ale and some gorgeous cauliflower cheese arancini balls. Each was perfectly crunchy and the filling seasoned to perfection. It was all made even better still with a side of truffle mayo. A fantastic bar snack which can be eaten at the table for lunch or simply with a drink at the bar.

One of my favourite dishes they serve here at The Cross Keys is this steak tartare. Visually it looks absolutely stunning, but in the mouth it’s also a dream. Tender chunks of quality, well-seasoned, rich and riddled with flavour. Served with a mustard smear and crispy lotus root chips for crunch. It’s large and very delicious. A must order if on the menu.

Just as good was the chicken liver parfait with brioche and caramelised onions. The parfait really was stunning and those pile of sweet onions on top really should be jarred and sent to me weekly. The brioche was also terrific, with that classic sweet and buttery richness to it. Add another half of the brioche and I’d have been just that little bit happier as that ramekin contains rather more parfait than you’d imagine.

Before our main courses even arrived we were already rather full. Portion sizes are very generous here so one thing you can expect is value for money, not just in size but quality. Chicken, creamy mashed potatoes, a stunning jus, chicken spring rolls and a handful of mushrooms. A lovely dish and all of it was carefully cooked. It’s dishes like these which make this pub a gastropub, going that extra mile with its execution, quality and presentation.

I really do love The Cross Keys in Chelsea. It’s a fantastic local and one I’m so glad they refurbed and reopened after this pubs sad closure back in 2012 . We didn’t quite get around to desserts on this occasion, but from experience they are usually the highlight. If you’re looking for a great food, affordable selection of wines, attentive service and quality gastro style cooking in the heart of Chelsea – then I couldn’t recommend The Cross Keys any more highly. It’s a local I’m proud to recommend.