Seemor
The Garden RoomB+?Proceed Cautiously
Middle Temple Ln, Temple, London EC4Y 9BT
· Cafe, Bar, Coworking space
· 4.4/5 Google (45 reviews)
Reservations · Outdoor seating
Charming hidden garden cafe serving simple Italian-leaning bites, gelato, and coffee at very low prices; service is usually kind but with some inconsistent experiences.
Why it gets a B+? for overall quality
Preliminary Grade: This restaurant has only 57 reviews, which is below our 50-review minimum for reliable grading. This grade should be considered preliminary until more reviews are available. The Garden Room delivers solid neighborhood cafe quality anchored by exceptional garden setting and atmosphere that justifies seeking it out. Well-prepared Italian-style fare and outstanding value make it competitive with respected local favorites, though inconsistent service and occasional missed orders prevent higher performance. The calm, spacious terrace and friendly staff create a genuine hidden gem experience for casual dining and coffee breaks.
Restaurant Summary
Down a narrow lane in the Inns of Court, this cafe opens onto a garden terrace that feels like a secret courtyard. The vibe is calm and tucked-away, with loads of seating inside and out. Service is often called kind and welcoming, and one reviewer raved it was an oasis of calm in the city. The cooking is straightforward and Italian-leaning: panini, simple pizzas, salads, pastries, and gelato. Expect simple food, well prepared rather than culinary fireworks, with prices that seem almost out of time for central London. It suits casual lunches, coffee breaks, and anyone seeking quiet comfort over flash. Families should find it easy: margherita pizza, pesto or ham panini, and plenty of gelato will please most kids. There is no noted kids menu, but portions and choices are approachable. Seating is spacious, the terrace is relaxed, and staff have been friendly to well-behaved dogs, which signals a laid-back atmosphere that works for families.
At a Glance
- Hidden garden terrace with peaceful atmosphere
- Excellent value with many £6 mains in central London
- Spacious, work-friendly seating and calm vibe
- Service can be inconsistent, with occasional rudeness or missed orders
- Dietary accommodations not clearly marked; mixed experiences reported
What Sets It Apart
- historic_garden_terrace
- budget_pricing_in_central_london
- work_friendly_space
What People Love
- Feeling of a secret oasis
- Kind staff on most visits
- Gelato and cakes that satisfy
- Prices that feel like a bargain for the area
Points of Concern
- A few reports of rude or abrupt counter service, including being bypassed in queue
- Occasional forgotten or delayed items at the counter
- Gluten-free inquiry handled poorly once; options unclear
- Garden seating depends on weather; indoor space can still get busy at lunch
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleCounter With Seating
Average Cost£12-18 per person
ReservationsRecommended
What to Order
- For value: any £6 panini plus £3.5 pastry for a sub-£10-£12 light meal
- For families: £6 margherita pizza and gelato scoops
- For tea lovers: Cream Tea for One at £6 offers classic comfort
Perfect For
- Quiet coffee and laptop time
- Casual lunch in a peaceful garden
- Affordable treat stop for gelato
- Relaxed meet-up away from the bustle
Location Insights
Area: Historic legal quarter with gardens and courtyards; calm enclave near the City and Strand.
Safety: Generally very safe, well-maintained institutional grounds with steady daytime foot traffic.
Nearby: Middle Temple Gardens, Inns of Court chambers, near Embankment and the Strand; offices and legal institutions nearby.
TempleTemple is a prestigious legal district centered around the Inns of Court, with a refined and professional atmosphere. Dining options here cater largely to the working legal community, offering upscale and traditional British fare alongside modern eateries, often busy during lunch and early evening hours.
Middle TempleMiddle Temple is one of the four Inns of Court, characterized by historic buildings, quiet courtyards, and exclusive dining clubs. The dining scene is formal and traditional, with many establishments frequented by legal professionals and visitors attending court or chambers.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday09:00–20:00
Tuesday09:00–20:00
Wednesday09:00–20:00
Thursday09:00–20:00
Friday09:00–20:00
Saturday
Sunday
Available: Reservations, Outdoor seating
View full analysis on Seemor →