Tucked away on cobbled Ezra Street near Columbia Road Flower Market, Waterhouse is an intimate restaurant and wine bar from husband-and-wife team Gabriel Waterhouse and Patricia Wakaimba. Set within a characterful Victorian warehouse, the space reflects Waterhouse’s Northumbrian roots, drawing inspiration from the landscapes, produce and culinary traditions of North East England while embracing a modern, ingredient-led approach to dining.
At the heart of Waterhouse is a commitment to seasonality and preservation. Throughout the year, the kitchen builds a larder of house-made ferments, vinegars, kombuchas, garums, misos and infusions, allowing ingredients captured at their peak to influence dishes long after the season has passed. This philosophy informs a menu that celebrates the northern coastline, from Northumberland and Scotland to the wider British Isles, with contemporary cooking rooted in regional traditions and craftsmanship.
The compact dining room seats just 24 guests, centring around an open kitchen where fermentation jars, herbs and flowers line the walls. Menus evolve regularly according to what is available from trusted suppliers, foragers and the restaurant’s own garden. Seafood plays a leading role, with dishes showcasing oysters, scallops, lobster and smoked fish from northern waters, while British meats, game, honey and seasonal produce feature throughout. Signature dishes change with the seasons, but guests can expect thoughtful tasting menus that balance refined technique with a strong sense of place.
Beyond the dining room, Waterhouse unfolds through a series of interconnected spaces. A productive garden supplies herbs, flowers and seasonal ingredients, while the adjoining wine bar offers a more relaxed experience with low-intervention wines, seasonal cocktails and snacks inspired by northern British flavours.
Designed to preserve the building’s original character, the interiors combine exposed brickwork, fireplaces, Crittall windows and handcrafted British furniture with ceramics and artisan-made details. The result is a warm and personal restaurant that brings together contemporary cooking, traditional preservation techniques and a distinctive celebration of northern British produce.