The Folly
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Quick info
About The Folly
The Folly is a modern European restaurant and bar in London at 41 Gracechurch St, built around a garden-influenced concept with a botanical-inspired interior. Exposed ceilings and wooden details run through the room, and a mezzanine level adds a second tier of space. The kitchen is open and sits at the back. A bar and seating area occupy the downstairs, while the bar upstairs holds the wine bottles. The seasonal menu mixes dishes from several cuisines and includes vegetarian options, with alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks to match. Brunch brings avocado toast and smoked salmon with scrambled eggs, and a pot of English breakfast tea is available. The split layout also suits large parties and events.
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Reviews
What reviewers say
Reviewers most often mention botanical-inspired decor, avocado toast, smoked salmon scrambled eggs and sirloin steak tacos.
What reviewers say
Reviewers most often mention botanical-inspired decor, avocado toast, smoked salmon scrambled eggs and sirloin steak tacos.
Customer Review Summary
Reviewers most often single out the decor and atmosphere, from a botanical-inspired interior and a striking entrance to a lively but not too loud room that suits large parties. The food draws steady praise too: avocado toast and smoked salmon with scrambled eggs at brunch, sirloin steak tacos, a brownie called marvellous, and good vegetarian choices alongside plenty of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks. Several describe friendly, attentive staff, yet service is the most repeated complaint. Diners say it was hard to catch anyone's attention in a half-empty room, and one reports ordering dragged so much that two courses took very long even though the chefs were quick. Portions also draw criticism, with the roast salmon described as small enough to feel like a child's meal, and one reviewer finds the menu expensive. That reviewer suggests checking portion sizes in the open kitchen before ordering. One more snag: the bar staff on the lower level refused to pour wine because the bottles were kept on the upper floor.
Customer Review Summary
Reviewers most often single out the decor and atmosphere, from a botanical-inspired interior and a striking entrance to a lively but not too loud room that suits large parties. The food draws steady praise too: avocado toast and smoked salmon with scrambled eggs at brunch, sirloin steak tacos, a brownie called marvellous, and good vegetarian choices alongside plenty of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks. Several describe friendly, attentive staff, yet service is the most repeated complaint. Diners say it was hard to catch anyone's attention in a half-empty room, and one reports ordering dragged so much that two courses took very long even though the chefs were quick. Portions also draw criticism, with the roast salmon described as small enough to feel like a child's meal, and one reviewer finds the menu expensive. That reviewer suggests checking portion sizes in the open kitchen before ordering. One more snag: the bar staff on the lower level refused to pour wine because the bottles were kept on the upper floor.
Featured reviews
- Raghuvir Ladva
“Great vibe at this place, food was good (including vegetarian) and plenty of drinks choice both alcoholic and non-alcoholic. Downstairs gets a bit warm in summer heat but nice and spacious. One snag, the bar staff downstairs refused to provide wine as apparently bottles were upstairs which was a bit weird and unhelpful. Otherwise no complaints.”
- Lexi
“⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Absolutely love The Hilly – such a gem of a spot! I visited recently and was blown away by how well thought-out every part of this place is. The interior has such a cool, warm industrial vibe – exposed ceilings, stylish wooden details, and that lovely mezzanine level gives it such character. It feels modern yet super welcoming, perfect for everything from casual drinks to a relaxed meal with friends. Even the restrooms stand out! Beautiful warm-toned textured tiles, spacious stalls, and a really well-kept vanity area with little thoughtful touches like the sweet quotes on the mirrors. It’s rare to find a venue that puts this much care into every corner. The atmosphere was just right – lively but not too loud, great lighting that feels cozy without being dim. I had a glass of white wine which was lovely, and the service was friendly and attentive without being overbearing. Located right here in Islington, it’s quickly become one of my go-to spots. Whether you’re stopping by for a drink, meeting friends, or just want a nice place to unwind, you won’t be disappointed. Highly recommend!”
- Wild Frame
“it’s beautiful inside and out! the decor is so pretty and they have great food and drink options. great venue for large parties and events too!”
- Ashyanee Kulatunge
“While wandering through the Monument area in central London, we happened upon The Folly its vibrant, eye catching décor instantly pulled us in. What started as a spontaneous stop quickly turned into a standout brunch experience. I opted for the avocado toast, while my partner chose the smoked salmon with scrambled eggs. Both dishes were beautifully presented and tasted amazing. Paired with a comforting pot of English breakfast tea, it was exactly the kind of indulgent yet energizing meal you want before a day exploring the city. From the atmosphere to the quality of the food, everything exceeded expectations. It’s the kind of place that feels like a hidden gem, and one I’ll gladly return to especially given how well it delivers on value for money.”
- Araz N. Imanov
“The Folly in London offers a refined and thoughtfully curated experience, blending elegant design with a lively yet balanced atmosphere. The interior is rich in detail, with a botanical-inspired concept that feels both distinctive and inviting. Every element seems carefully considered, creating a space that is visually engaging without becoming overwhelming. The service is attentive and well-paced, complementing the overall setting. The entrance deserves a special mention — truly beautiful and striking. It immediately sets the tone, drawing you in with a sense of character and sophistication even before you step inside. A place that delivers not just on quality, but on experience from the very first impression.”
Hours
- Monday
- Tuesday
- Wednesday
- Thursday
- Friday
- Saturday
- Sunday
Good to know
“A garden-influenced restaurant and bar, where the seasonal menu has international flavours.”
- AccessibilityWheelchair-accessible entrance · Wheelchair-accessible seating · Wheelchair-accessible toilet
Amenities
- Wheelchair-accessible entrance
Show more amenities
- Accessibility· 3
- Wheelchair-accessible seating
- Wheelchair-accessible toilet
- Wheelchair-accessible car park
Location
Restaurants near The Folly
- The Libertine Restaurant & Bar4.71,5910.2 miWheelchair accessible
sunday roast, burger, fish pie
- Birley Sandwiches3.5850.2 miVegetarian optionsWheelchair accessible
mix-your-own salads, toasted sandwiches, homemade soup
- 0.2 miWheelchair accessible
mixed grill, half grilled chicken, mezze platter with hummus
| Place | Rating | Distance | Mentioned in reviews |
|---|---|---|---|
| The Folly | 4.15,889 | — | botanical-inspired decor, avocado toast, smoked salmon scrambled eggs |
| The Libertine Restaurant & BarWheelchair accessible | 4.71,591 | 0.2 mi | sunday roast, burger, fish pie |
| Birley SandwichesVegetarian options · Wheelchair accessible | 3.585 | 0.2 mi | mix-your-own salads, toasted sandwiches, homemade soup |
| Yalla Beirut, Lebanese Restaurant, Tower HillWheelchair accessible | 4.62,543 | 0.2 mi | mixed grill, half grilled chicken, mezze platter with hummus |
The 3 nearest restaurants by distance. Ratings, hours and review terms come from public business profiles.
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