When it comes to planning your next event, be it a birthday party, networking drinks or even wedding reception, Sylva is just the kind of place you want to have in your back pocket. Located in South London's Deptford, this community-focused spot is all about embracing fresh Mediterranean and Middle Eastern home cooking in a casual, friendly environment.
Sylva is named after 17th-century writer John Evelyn who has since been dubbed Britain's first environmentalist and is most known for his book, Sylva, which is said to be one of the most influential texts on forestry ever published. The restaurant's founders say they too have a love and passion from nature and embrace this in every way they can while running the restaurant, from using second-class produce to upcycling their interiors.
The restaurant is helmed by Chef Shuli who moved from Tel Aviv 11 years ago and worked for five years at The River Cafe before setting up shop on her own. She is supported by Joe and Nick, who are the founders of Smith & Brock, which works with incredible producers across Europe to source fresh fruit, veg and fine foods, to deliver to select eateries around London.
It's no wonder that Sylva is a popular haunt with locals, thanks to its modern vibe and contemporary design. The intimate dining room is opened up with large windows, flooding the minimalist space with light. Versatile, it's the kind of place you could use for any kind of celebration, with the team happy to help you make this setting your own.
For events, Sylva will of course take care of your catering needs and while there isn't an events menu on the website, you can take a look at their daily menu for inspiration, which features the likes of Isle of Wight tomato salad, rump steak and mids potatoes and goat cheese sandwich with homemade chutney.