Seemor

The PortmanA-Worth Trying

Name: The Portman
Address: 51 Upper Berkeley St, London W1H 7QW, London, United Kingdom
Rating: 4.4

51 Upper Berkeley St, London W1H 7QW · Pub, Gastropub · 4.4/5 Google (882 reviews)

Outdoor seating

A stylish Marylebone gastropub with inventive British fare, lively atmosphere, and prices that reflect its central London location—worth it for food lovers, but not for bargain seekers.

Why it gets an A- for overall quality

The Portman delivers solid A-grade performance through exceptional food quality featuring creative British cuisine and outstanding setting appeal in a stylish Marylebone location. However, inconsistent execution during peak times and variable service speed prevent it from reaching grade A territory. It's a reliable choice for groups and special occasions, though pricing reflects central London expectations rather than exceptional value.

Restaurant Summary

The Portman stands out as a stylish gastropub in the heart of Marylebone, blending classic British comfort food with creative, modern twists. The atmosphere is lively downstairs and more relaxed upstairs, with exquisite decor and a plant-filled interior that sets the scene for everything from business lunches to family gatherings. Signature dishes like fish and chips, chicken pie, and confit duck leg earn consistent praise, while inventive cocktails and a robust drinks menu round out the experience. Culinarily, The Portman leans into a creative British approach, offering vegan gnocchi, steak tartare, and sweetcorn ribs alongside pub classics. This makes it a great fit for diners who appreciate both tradition and a bit of adventure on their plate. Portions are generally satisfying, though some find them modest for the price. The menu is more diverse than many pubs, with options for vegans, vegetarians, and those seeking something a little different. For families, The Portman is family-friendly but not specifically kid-focused. While there’s no dedicated kids’ menu, familiar options like fries, burgers (including a vegetarian version), and simple desserts are available. Reviews from families are positive, but picky eaters may find the menu a bit adventurous. If your child is happy with classic pub fare, you’ll be fine; if not, consider nearby alternatives.

At a Glance

Creative British menu with vegan and vegetarian options.
Stylish, lively setting with both relaxed and energetic spaces.
Excellent for groups and special occasions.
Prices are high for a pub—expect to pay central London rates.
Lively atmosphere can get noisy, especially downstairs during peak times.

What Sets It Apart

creative_british_menu
stylish_pub_setting
dog_friendly
excellent_sunday_roast

What People Love

The fish and chips—crispy, flavorful, and consistently praised
Inventive cocktails and a wide selection of beers
Friendly, attentive staff who go the extra mile
Beautiful decor and a cozy, plant-filled interior
Sunday roasts that draw regulars and newcomers alike

Points of Concern

Pricing is genuinely expensive (£19+ mains, £7 pints) which may surprise casual diners.
Service can be slow or inattentive during peak times or with large groups.
Noise levels can be high, especially downstairs or when busy.
Some portion sizes (e.g., mussels, fries) are small for the price.

Service & Dining Experience

Service StyleTable Service Average Cost£38-48 per person ReservationsNot required

What to Order

Try the vegan Scottish girolle gnocchi for a plant-based main.
Order the sticky chicken thighs or steak tartare as standout starters.
Save room for the sticky toffee pudding or dark chocolate tart.
If dining with kids, fries, burgers, and simple desserts are safe bets.

Perfect For

Sunday roast with friends or family
Business lunches in a stylish setting
Celebrating special occasions with a group
Casual drinks and inventive cocktails

Location Insights

Area: Marylebone is an upscale, cosmopolitan neighborhood with a mix of professionals, affluent residents, and international visitors. The vibe is stylish yet relaxed, with a strong food and drink scene.

Safety: Generally very safe, well-lit, and well-maintained with steady foot traffic day and night.

Nearby: Close to boutique hotels, independent shops, and other popular pubs and restaurants. Hyde Park and Oxford Street are within walking distance.

Marylebone VillageA refined and upscale neighborhood with a mix of boutique shops, fine dining restaurants, and elegant residential spaces. The dining scene is characterized by sophisticated, high-quality establishments catering to discerning clientele.

Upper Berkeley Street CorridorA discrete urban zone featuring premium residential buildings and select dining and retail establishments, representing a particularly exclusive segment of Marylebone.

Practical Information

Opening Hours

Monday12:00–23:00 Tuesday12:00–23:00 Wednesday12:00–23:00 Thursday12:00–23:00 Friday12:00–23:00 Saturday12:00–23:00 Sunday12:00–22:30

Available: Outdoor seating

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