Last Updated on September 17, 2025
A Taste of Nostalgia at The Montagu Kitchen
Mother’s Day – a once-a-year hall pass for mums everywhere to put their feet up, bask in appreciation, and, crucially, steer well clear of the kitchen. This year, I seized the opportunity with both hands (and a Champagne flute) at the five-star hotel, Hyatt Regency London – The Churchill. Hidden away in the genteel streets of Marylebone, the hotel’s Montagu Kitchen has unveiled a delightfully retro 1940s-themed brunch, a monthly affair held on the last Sunday of each month. A loving nod to its namesake, Winston Churchill, it combines wartime nostalgia with modern-day indulgence – think less ration books, more refined dining in an elegant London setting.
When I arrived at The Churchill with my daughter on Sunday afternoon, Montagu Kitchen was already in full swing, humming with the sultry tones of a jazz vocalist crooning “Sway” and other 1940s classics. The walls are painted in striking shades of air force blue, with high ceilings hung with large glass chandeliers and large windows overlooking Portman Square. The dining room was dressed for the occasion – English garden-inspired tables adorned with candelabras, vintage books, and newspapers straight out of the era -setting the scene for a feast steeped in both nostalgia and indulgence.
We kicked things off with a glass of prosecco. A friendly gentleman came over and asked if he could take our photo, explaining that a watercolour artist was painting portraits of the guests. It was a sweet surprise, and sure enough, by the time we were ready to leave, our own little painting of me and my daughter was waiting for us to take home. A thoughtful touch and a nice memento made the whole experience feel a bit more special.
The buffet is laid out for guests to help themselves at their own leisure. And what a feast it was; the long tables were generously stocked, striking that sweet spot between homely comfort and polished hotel dining. There were warm bowls of the soup of the day – simple and satisfying- alongside baskets of crusty, freshly baked bread and flaky, buttery pastries that disappeared fast.
A well-chosen selection of cheeses and charcuterie sat invitingly beside folds of smoked salmon and bowls brimming with colourful salads, while dishes of hummus – plain, beetroot, and spiced – offered a pleasing variety. Roasted Mediterranean vegetables added a pop of colour and a welcome hit of sweetness and char, all served in an atmosphere that encouraged you to return for seconds… or thirds.
A pasta station stole the show, where creamy mushroom rigatoni was theatrically tossed inside a hulking parmesan wheel by a man with a big smile, sending curls of steam into the air.
Nearby, the open kitchen while the carvery station sliced up succulent Slow Cooked Beef Striploin. On the side, dishes brimming with perfectly crisp and golden roast potatoes, fluffy Yorkshire puddings and an array of freshly made vegetables.
The afternoon unfolded at a leisurely pace – first, we dipped into the cold buffet, indulging more than we should have before making our way to the carvery. The beef was pink, tender, and full of flavour, with trimmings just as they should be.
Finally casting all thoughts of our waistlines aside, we headed to the dessert table – a glorious spread of dainty tarts, elegant cakes, and indulgent puddings. And yes, we tried several (for research purposes, of course).
This is a truly delightful way to spend a Sunday afternoon: free-flowing fine food, refined surroundings, and live entertainment all laid on. A real treat to share with your loved ones.
Held on the last Sunday of every month* (excluding July and August) in Hyatt Regency London, The Churchill’s seasonal British restaurant, The Montagu Kitchen.
The next brunch in the series will be in honour of Easter on Sunday 27th April 2025, with the restaurant hosting an exciting Easter egg hunt around the venue.
The Sunday brunches are available to book between 12:30 pm and 4:30 pm, with the last seating at 3:30 pm, and will be priced at £69 per person, including a glass of bubbly or soft drink. Guests can also upgrade to unlimited drinks** for an additional £36 per person. Bookings can be made via the following link: https://www.hyattrestaurants.com/en/london/restaurant/the-montagu-kitchen/events.
Hyatt Regency London – The Churchill
30 Portman Square
London
W1H 7BH
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