In the last few years, London diners have witnessed the rise of local, neighbourhood joints that foster a sense of community. In well-heeled Chiswick, The Silver Birch is a local opening that has joined in on the action, setting up shop on the area’s bustling high street.
The Silver Birch serves up a string of modern European dishes as part of a menu which evolves with the seasons, while dishes are crafted using ingredients that have been locally sourced where possible. With such an impressive commitment to fastidious sourcing, it should come as no surprise that the chef behind the food here is far from an amateur. Heading up the kitchen is Kimberley Hernandez, who has previously worked at big hitters St John and Dinner by Heston and was most recently head chef at Kym’s, Andrew Wong’s City spin-off of his legendary A.Wong restaurant.
Hernandez’s food at The Silver Birch appears simple, yet effective. Diners can start off with colourful creations such as soy-poached duck with green olives, River Teign Mussels with clementines and almonds or blooming onion with ceps and cumin. Mains continue the creativity with the likes of glazed fried chicken with garum, cauliflower and pickles, Torbay monkfish with yuzu kosho, black garlic and spinach or sliced shorthorn ribeye with black truffle and onion cream. To finish, guests can opt for a truly decadent Knickerbocker glory, flourless chocolate cake or a selection of British cheeses. On the weekends, brunch is also available, featuring much of the main menu alongside topped toasts, such as wild mushrooms with egg yolk and soy emulsion or smoked salmon, dill and creme fraiche.
The dining room is a relaxed, pared-back space filled with a blend of dark woods and punctuated by pretty illustrations by artist Jessie Brown hanging from the walls. The Silver Birch also boasts a chef’s table which overlooks the open kitchen, if you would prefer a seat close to the action.