There's a new spot to know about just off the King's Road, and it's not your average London boozer. The Chalk Freehouse is the latest opening from Tom De Keyser, long-time collaborator of Tom Kerridge and former head chef at the two-Michelin-starred Hand and Flowers. It's a proper gastropub, but with refined comfort food and smart details that reflect De Keyser's fine-dining background.
It's set inside a gorgeous two-storey Victorian building, serving a menu that highlights refined British fare, such as pork chop schnitzel with smoked bacon cabbage, roasted ray wing with crispy cockles, or a curry-roasted baby chicken with braised butter beans. There's also a good-value set menu (two courses for £18.50), moreish desserts (chocolate tart with smoked sea salt and a pork fat Chelsea bun with custard), and a big Sunday roast featuring 30-day dry-aged beef.
Behind the bar, you'll find lagers, IPAs, including one from Hand and Flowers, a monthly cask special for the regulars, and a wine list curated by sommelier Gavin Hills.
Inside, there's a custom-built hardwood bar and a relaxed 60-cover dining room, plus a 10-seat private space. A small garden makes it a cosy pick for summer pints.
Bookings are now open – and trust us, this one's worth getting in early.