Petersham Nurseries

Petersham Nurseries, a spectacular country estate near Richmond, boasts a lovely garden, a small shop, a cafe and a teahouse. The estate, now in its second generation of family ownership, has belonged to the Bogliones since 1970. Lara Boglione says her father, Francesco, bought the place at the suggestion of his friend, Mick Jagger. He made the right choice! Today, Petersham Nurseries is a meeting place for gourmands fleeing the hustle and bustle of London for fresh air and fresher foods, the latter thanks to chef Cat Ashton and culinary director Lucy Boyd.

Petersham Cafe, which resembles a greenhouse (think "simple, yet elegant"), offers lunch six days a week made from fresh ingredients, including vegetables and herbs grown right on the premises. As for the seafood, local fishmongers bring it right to the kitchen by bicycle! The Teahouse serves Italian-style lunch and is famous for its delicious homemade pies (carrot, coconut, chocolate and banana pies are so good).

The teahouse is open for breakfast from 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Tuesday through Sunday. Highlights include croissants, organic oatmeal with homemade jam, and fresh brewed coffee. Take a piece of Petersham Nurseries home with you at the little shop next to the restaurant, where you'll find live plants and antique utensils from around the world. The shop also hosts frequent floristry workshops and wine tastings.

We recommend: The Petersham Pomegranate Bellini is an absolute must-try aperitif, after which you should treat yourself to the ravioli with spinach, ricotta and pine nuts; the slow roasted lamb with carrot puree; or the grilled sea bass. For desert, try the lemon pie with mascarpone.

Cuisine: Italian/English fusion.

Atmosphere: bohemian/relaxed.

The crowd: Stella McCartney, Mick Jagger, Surrey locals, English bohemians, well-heeled British families, artsy folks, people taking a break from the hustle and bustle of London.

Key info: Petersham Nurseries is no more than 30 minutes from London by car. Tables should be reserved at least one or two weeks in advance.

photo credit: David Loftus

Tags: Petersham Nurseries