Last Updated on April 27, 2025
Brunch on cloud nine
One way to beat your Sunday scaries? A luxurious brunch at one of London’s most glamorous restaurants, of course. Nothing short of delightful, Sky Lounge at Shangri-La, The Shard is every wobbly weekender’s cure for those post-party blues. Expect to sip on a crisp glass of Veuve Clicquot, and feast on an abundance of delectable food, all while soaking in the views of the capital. But be sure not to let your eyes wander in the direction of that city office. Remember, this is a time of pure escapism.
It’s a grey morning in March when I head to London Bridge station to meet my friend for our visit – this is her birthday treat, so I’m right on schedule. A quick five-minute stroll from The Shard, we waste no time, our heels clicking briskly against the pavement. Anticipation builds as we look up at our destination: the storied city landmark, shimmering in the mist. Arriving at the Sky Lounge is an adventure in itself: with one push of the elevator button and a ping from the speakers, we arrive on floor 34. I feel like James Bond, on the way to meet a villain…
We are greeted by floor-to-ceiling windows and panoramic views of London like I’ve never seen her: a model-village-esque mass of grey and glass. Despite the morning drizzle, the clouds have begun to part, letting in brilliant sunshine across the interiors. A colour scheme of sage greens and warm yellow tones run throughout the room, all offset against leafy foliage and painted plant tops. Guests are seated at small round tables with plush chairs that line the windows allowing Vertigo-inducing views from the safety of your seat.
Our waiter, charming and attentive, seats us in a prime spot, allowing us to take in the view of the River Thames winding its way through the capital. But we waste no time and focus our attention on ordering.
The Sky Brunch is priced at £79, which includes a welcome glass of Veuve Clicquot Champagne followed by a two-course meal and an artisanal market-style dessert buffet. For an additional £60, there is the option to go bottomless, perfect for an extra-special weekend celebration or simply just because you deserve it. Who doesn’t? Still brushing off the cobwebs from the weekend’s antics we felt no need to go bottomless and opted for the former.
To start we both enjoyed the Confit Loch Duart Salmon. Delicately presented, the salmon was gorgeously light with a subtle buttery flavour, expertly paired with the hollandaise sauce and crunchy radicchio for added texture.
Swiftly moving on to mains, we decided to share the Vietnamese-style Sea Bass and wok-fried Beef Fillet. The sea bass was exquisitely cooked, with a firm yet flaky white flesh infused with delightful flavours from the ginger and chilli marinade. Topped with a garnish of fresh coriander, it rested elegantly atop a bed of bouncy glass noodles.
The beef was a touch more indulgent, but that’s certainly not a complaint. With lemongrass, ginger, chilli, and soy, this dish exuded smoky flavours and a rich taste. The crisp textures from the sautéed peppers and onions were a match made in heaven with the tender beef, reminding me just how delightful wok-fried food can be. Served alongside light and fluffy rice, it was the perfect accompaniment for soaking up every bit of that moorish sauce.
Now, onto the buffet. Despite starting with relatively light starters and mains, it became abundantly clear that our appetites, when faced with unlimited offerings, have magically expanded. I guess you can’t let good food go to waste, right?
Beginning with the cheese selection, curated in collaboration with Aubrey Allen, we were presented with an array of premium British and European cheeses. The variety was almost overwhelming, but our decision-making process was made easier by the helpful cheesemonger, who guided us through a tasting based on our preferences. Feeling slightly sheepish with our fairly large plate of cheeses we slinked back to our table before realizing all guests had done the same.
We kicked our cheese tasting off with an aged Cheddar, notable for its delightful nutty flavour and buttery texture, coupled with a sharp aftertaste. Next, a delightfully creamy Goat cheese followed by a Comté with the perfect balance of sweet and salty undertones. However, the undisputed champion was the ‘Stinking Bishop’, a cheese that defied its name with its heavenly melt-in-the-mouth texture. To complement the cheeses, was a selection of accompaniments including truffle honey, quince, grapes and sourdough crackers. And if you’re feeling particularly indulgent like us, toasted sourdough slices soaked in olive oil.
We exercised some restraint when it came to dessert. But the sight of sweet treats, reminiscent of scenes from “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, was irresistible. The centrepiece comprised a lavish chocolate fountain featuring Original Beans Organic Chocolate, accompanied by marshmallows and an assortment of fruits for dipping. Surrounding this were an array of homemade mini desserts, ranging from tiramisu and Victoria sponge to chocolate chip cookies and chunks of dark and white chocolate with almonds. Gluten-free and vegan options are available too. Opting for moderation, we concluded with a beautifully presented lemon tart, filled with a dreamy lemon curd centre that served as the perfect finale to a truly decadent experience.
What a fabulous way to spend a Sunday. The entire experience left us feeling like we were on cloud nine – flawless in every way. My only advice would be to avoid eating beforehand or making any plans afterwards, as you’ll undoubtedly leave feeling more than satisfied.
London’s highest new brunch is on offer every Sunday in the Sky Lounge at Shangri-La The Shard, London at £79 per person with a single glass of Veuve Cliquot Champagne or £139 per person for 90 minutes of free-flowing Veuve Cliquot Champagne
Sky Lounge, Shangri-La The Shard
Level 35,
31 St Thomas St,
London SE1 9QU
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