Phil Howard and Rebecca Mascarenhas have a proven track record of opening restaurants that simply serve food that everyone loves to eat. Their latest venture, on the old site of their previous restaurant Sonny’s Kitchen, is the latest to join the fold. Church Road is a relaxed, neighbourhood establishment that offers the residents of Barnes (and beyond) a menu of seasonal-led, simple dishes absolutely packed with flavour.

Head chef Sam Astley-Dean runs the kitchen, getting whatever is at the peak of its season and turning it into familiar, accessible dishes which look simple on the plate, but have been given some serious attention behind the scenes. Working with the best British farmers, fishermen and foragers, the menu takes top ingredients and turns them into the plates of food that have made all of Phil’s restaurants such a success. There are plenty of French and Mediterranean touches to the menu, with nothing unfamiliar or inaccessible – the menu reads like a checklist of universally loved dishes, all given that little extra touch.

Diners can choose from the à la carte or set lunch, with a special lunch menu on Sundays too. There’s a separate bar area offering snacks and drinks for those who aren’t looking for a full sit-down meal, and the private dining room is also used to host events and pop-up wine shops. During lockdown, the team also offer a takeaway and local delivery service.

The décor is contemporary with nods to 1950s glamour, with a clean, crisp interior that remains light and relaxed at the same time. With the crowd-pleasing menu, friendly service and a drinks list that ranges from the very affordable to bottles for a special occasion, Church Road is a prime example of a neighbourhood restaurant done very, very well.