Christmas party season calls for somewhere that feels a little more exciting than the usual pub booking, and Sam's Waterside delivers exactly that. Sitting on the edge of the dock at The Brentford Project, this contemporary brasserie combines modern British cooking with a gorgeous waterside setting, making it a smart choice for festive lunches, team celebrations and end-of-year gatherings with family and friends.
Opened in 2023 as the sister restaurant to the much-loved Sam's Riverside in Hammersmith, Sam's Waterside has quickly established itself as one of West London's standout dining destinations. Large windows frame views across the canal and dock, creating a bright atmosphere by day before the restaurant takes on a softer, more intimate feel after dark. During the festive season, it's easy to imagine the dining room dressed for Christmas, with seasonal greenery, twinkling lights and a lively buzz that works perfectly for the office do.
The restaurant is also exceptionally well located. Whether guests are travelling from central London or surrounding areas, Brentford is easy to reach, while nearby attractions including Kew Gardens, Brentford Football Club, Twickenham Stadium and Gunnersbury Park.
Behind the menu is restaurateur Sam Harrison, whose career has spanned restaurants across Australia, Canada and Cornwall before launching several acclaimed London restaurants. Together with business partner Fanny Stocker, the pair have built a reputation for warm hospitality and thoughtful, produce-led cooking, with ingredients sourced from trusted suppliers including Chiswick House Kitchen Garden and Phoenix Farm in White City.
While festive menus are likely to evolve for the Christmas season, the restaurant's existing set menu gives a great indication of its style. Starters include salmon and haddock fishcake served with sauce gribiche, cold roast beef with salsa verde, croutons and Parmesan, or gazpacho topped with feta mousse, black olive crumb and basil oil. Main courses range from cavolo nero ravioli finished with lemon butter, sage and Parmesan to hot smoked salmon salad with pickled courgette and fennel, alongside a classic chicken and bacon Caesar salad.