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16-18 St James’s Place, London, SW1A 1NJ
Harden's survey result
Summary
‘Hoof, feather and field’ is the billing given to the meaty options (which are the top choices) at this traditional dining room – a peaceful space, discreetly hidden away in St James’s and overseen from afar by its ‘food director’, star-chef Lisa Goodwin-Allen of The Stafford’s sister property, Northcote (in Lancs). Practically all reports applaud its all-round professional performance and also its “extensive” cellar. Top Tip – a shout out to the “sumptuous and plentiful” afternoon tea served on the “wonderful comfortable sofas” nearby complete with “free refills for the sandwiches!”
Summary
“A hidden gem in the heart of London” – this “discreet” dining room is tucked away in an Edwardian St James’s five star, but well worth discovering nowadays as its “top-of-the-range”, classic British cuisine is going from strength to strength, and its plush, traditional style is suited to many types of occasion including business and romance. In August 2021, Lisa Goodwin-Allen of Northcote in Lancashire (same ownership) was named as the new overseer from afar of the menu here. Perhaps she’s behind the boost in ratings, although there’s been no discernible revolution in its general culinary approach.
Summary
Hidden away in St James’s, this “excellent hotel restaurant” delivers “wonderful” old-school British classics with contemporary aplomb; and is “especially good for a Sunday roast”. The Stafford Hotel dates from 1912 and its American Bar has long been famous, but for all its Edwardian trappings, the Game Bird only took flight five years ago.
Summary
The “old-world comfort and glamour” of a quiet St James’s hotel dining room provides the setting for “studiedly English food” – “a seasonal mix of classic and modern dishes” including “excellent roast beef from the trolley on Sundays”. “Exceptionally good service” at “discrete tables which feel very private” and “a superb wine list” add to its attractions, particularly for entertaining clients. No surprises, though, that “it’s pricey for what you get”. Top Tip – “a preprandial cocktail in the famous American Bar is highly recommended”.
For 33 years we've been curating reviews of the UK's most notable restaurant. In a typical year, diners submit over 50,000 reviews to create the most authoritative restaurant guide in the UK. Each year, the guide is re-written from scratch based on this survey (although for the 2021 edition, reviews are little changed from 2020 as no survey could run for that year).
Have you eaten at The Game Bird?
Owner's description
Under the direction of celebrated Michelin-starred chef, Lisa Goodwin-Allen, The Game Bird is inspired by great seasonal, British produce and the bustle of historic St James’s. Together, Lisa and Executive Chef Jozef Rogulski have created a menu overflowing with an innovative combination of familiar favourites and delicious surprises.
Simplicity and elegance lead the way; enjoy the finest seasonal ingredients, in simple yet creative dishes, with relaxed, attentive service, in a stylish and comfortable setting. At The Game Bird, we’re dedicated to bringing only the very best British produce to the table.
All Day Dining (Monday to Sunday) between 12.00 pm and 9.00 pm
Breakfast 7.00 am - 10.30 am (Monday to Friday) and 7.30 am - 11.00 am (Saturday and Sunday)
Prices
| Availability | 2 courses | 3 courses |  |
 |
 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lunch | £40.00 | £50.00 |  |
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| SundayLunch | £50.00 | £55.00 | |
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Traditional European menu
| Starter | Main | Veggies | Pudding |
|---|---|---|---|
| £15.00 | £36.00 | £9.00 | £12.50 |
| Drinks |
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|---|---|
| Wine per bottle | £65.00 |
| Filter Coffee | £5.50 |
| Extras |
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|---|---|
| Bread | £0.00 |
| Service | 12.50% |
Restaurant details
The chef
The new menu will showcase the finest British produce and support many British artisan producers, elevating the current offering by drawing on Lisa’s experience from Michelin-starred Northcote in Lancashire.
Lisa will continue her role as Executive Chef at Northcote, another property within the Stafford Collection, thereby celebrating the culinary talent within the group.
16-18 St James’s Place, London, SW1A 1NJ
Opening hours
| Monday | 12 pm‑9 pm |
| Tuesday | 12 pm‑9 pm |
| Wednesday | 12 pm‑9 pm |
| Thursday | 12 pm‑9 pm |
| Friday | 12 pm‑9 pm |
| Saturday | 12 pm‑9 pm |
| Sunday | 12 pm‑9 pm |
