Imagine a secret courtyard tucked away in the heart of posh Buckingham Gate, right next to Buckingham Palace’s back garden. You might just stumble upon it, like I did. It’s the TreeHouse@51, a restaurant hidden within the magnificent Taj Hotel. You’ll find it just a stone’s throw from Victoria Station, but stepping inside feels like entering another world.
A Courtyard Oasis
The Taj Hotel, with its stunning brick facade and remnants of the British Raj era, is a true architectural marvel. But its most beautiful secret lies within: a hidden courtyard. It’s an oasis of tranquility, where a mesmerizing fountain depicting scenes from Shakespeare’s plays adds to the charm, while the occasional supercar glides past, delivering hotel guests and diners.
A Glass Dining Room and a Courtyard Delight
The interior is a masterpiece of modern design, crafted by Conran & Partners. The glass dining room is a feast for the eyes, but the courtyard steals the show when the sun shines. We were lucky enough to catch a glimpse of blue skies, so we decided to soak up the al fresco atmosphere.
Friendly Staff and a Unique Dining Experience
The staff at TreeHouse@51 are exceptionally welcoming and friendly, reflecting the Taj’s Indian heritage. They take pride in their unique space and go the extra mile to make your experience enjoyable. You’ll find them diligently chasing away any stray pigeons that might try to join your meal.
From Classic Fare to Bold Flavors
The restaurant offers two menus: the Hotel Standard, catering to diverse tastes, and the more adventurous Courtyard Menu. This latter menu is a real treat, featuring dishes cooked on a Robata grill, a Japanese charcoal grill known for its intensely hot flames.
A Journey Through Flavors
We started with salads, and while my Summer Squash Fettuccine with sundried tomatoes, pesto, olives, and balsamic was a bit underwhelming, the mozzarella added a nice touch. My friend’s Baby Roots salad, with edamame, avocado, quinoa, and berry yogurt dressing, was more successful. The quinoa was perfectly cooked, and the combination of flavors created a delightful summery vibe.
Main Courses to Remember
The main courses were truly impressive. My Sea Bass fillet, with its sumac, basil, lemon, and garlic confit, was a symphony of flavors, and the spicy chips added a delightful kick.
My friend opted for the Spiced Tofu and Patty Pan Squash, with Gochujang. The Gochujang, a Korean chilli paste, packs a fiery punch, tempered by the sweetness of the glutinous rice. The perfectly grilled patty pan squash was a standout, bursting with flavor.
A Grand Finale: The Mango Cheesecake
But the real highlight of our meal was the Mango Cheesecake with Chilli Mango Coulis. The combination of sweet mango and spicy chilli created a truly unique and delicious dessert. The cheesecake itself was rich and creamy, and the coulis added a layer of complexity that elevated the dish to a whole new level.
A Luxurious Experience
TreeHouse@51 is a luxury restaurant with a modern twist. It’s not outrageously expensive, but it offers a stylish ambiance and a menu that’s both adventurous and refined. It effortlessly blends European and Indian influences, creating a dining experience that’s both memorable and delicious. We couldn’t resist trying the Mango Cheesecake again, this time with afternoon tea in the beautiful courtyard. It’s a must-try for anyone looking for a unique and unforgettable dining experience.
