Seasonality

Founded by husband and wife team, Head Chef Wesley and Francesca Smalley, Seasonality's roots lie in delivering local produce to its community through meal delivery boxes. Today, it has blossomed into a vibrant neighbourhood restaurant.

Under the meticulous care of Head Chef Wesley and his wife Francesca, the restaurant's atmosphere mirrors its culinary philosophy - simple, yet executed with elegance. The exposed brick walls create a cosy ambiance, while the open kitchen allows diners to witness the tranquil culinary magic of Head Chef Wesley Smalley. Service is friendly and inviting, making you feel as though you've stepped into a cherished corner of the Smalley's home.

At the time of our visit, a three-course dinner is attractively priced at £47.30 per person. On the reverse of the menu, you'll find the restaurant's fascinating story, as well as highlights detailing the origins of their ingredients, from the butcher to the very farm that churned your butter. Much like their food menu, Seasonality's wine list is concise but thoughtfully curated.

Our culinary journey commenced with starters of Iberico ham and potato fondant filled with Tunworth Cheese and truffle honey. The harmonious blend of sweetness from the honey and the saltiness of the ham was a delightful combination. This was followed by plates of risotto caponata and bowls of beef cheek massaman. The risotto, both flavorful and beautifully presented, was a testament to the artistry in simplicity. The beef cheek massaman, however, stole the show, bursting with an array of flavours as the tender beef cheek basked in a glossy sauce, crowned with aromatic herbs and crispy potatoes. For dessert, we savoured the dramatic flair of an affogato, enhanced by the addition of black forest ice cream, a unique twist on a classic.

Amidst a landscape teeming with culinary hotspots, including the famed Bray, home to the iconic Fat Duck, and the Michelin-star-studded Marlow, Seasonality proudly holds its own as a neighbourhood restaurant worth venturing to. And for those who still yearn for the experience of Seasonality at home, fear not; their meal boxes remain an integral part of their thriving business.

Seasonality opened its doors in April 2021, courtesy of husband and wife duo Wesley and Francesca Smalley. Wesley's journey began in Hong Kong, where he developed a passion for food amidst the vibrant street markets. Starting as an apprentice at a local Brasserie in Sunningdale, Berkshire, Wesley honed his skills in renowned London kitchens, including The Canteen and Chelsea Harbour.

Before founding Seasonality, Wesley served as the chef director of the Oriental Club in Mayfair, where he nurtured his love for both modern and classical cookery, showcasing a particular expertise in crafting exceptional curries. After originally serving dine-at-home boxes and monthly supper tasting evenings, the pair soon introduced lunch services, gradually expanding to evening service, and in April 2022, transformed from a shop into Seasonality, a full fledged restaurant. True to its name, Seasonality remains dedicated to showcasing ingredients at their peak, changing its menu with the seasons.

The restaurant itself is cosy, with the focus of the dining room being the central open kitchen. You'll see Wes and team behind the pass cooking and plating up dishes, before they're ferried through to tables. There are also a few counter seats right up at the kitchen, for those who enjoy the theatre of live service.

Seasonality has a diverse menu. Begin with Darlingford oysters topped with shichimi togarashi, progressing to starters like Jerusalem artichoke soup, black pudding, feta toast, and blue cheese potato fondant with pickled pear and walnuts. Main courses showcase delights such as Cornish hake with cocoa beans, wild mushrooms, and buttermilk, or local partridge paired with sweet and sour beetroot and salsify. Conclude with the luscious apple and cinnamon crème brûlée adorned with blackberries, epitomising Seasonality's commitment to showcasing the finest ingredients in a symphony of delicious flavours.