Dulwich Picture Gallery Cafe

My wife and myself paid our first visit yesterday to West Dulwich and whilst there came across the impressive Dulwich Picture Gallery. As we were relatively short of time, we decided to visit the Gallery on our next visit but popped into the nearby Cafe for a coffee. This was very nice with no shortage of patrons but the goodies on offer certainly struck me as being overly priced. That aside, well worth a visit even if just for a coffee!!

I ordered the cheese and chorizo toastie and decided a side order of grilled tomatoes would work. The toastie was fine but my side (at £3.50) consisted of 4 thin slices of warm tomato. If put back together they would hardly have formed a half tomato. Prices here are not cheap well we are in Dulwich but I don’t think I’ve ever consumed such an expensive two mouthfuls of tomato anywhere else in the world. A first. And also a last. Although I will certainly visit the picture gallery again, lunch will be taken elsewhere.

The choice of patries was a bit disappointing, the cafe was overcrowded (weekday) and I couldn’t get a seat. The only option was to take away my order and sit on a bench in the gallery garden.

First visit (for the Berthe Morisot Shaping Impressionism) and I loved it! Wasn’t aware beforehand that this was the first purpose built art gallery and the architecture is stunning. The permanent collection includes Canaletto’s, Reynolds and was originally a Royal Collection, for the King of Poland. He was exiled before the collection could be set up hence this gallery being purpose built to show the artworks. Interior is beautiful. Nice cafe in a newer extension, also nice grassy grounds with deck chairs scattered around for you to sit in nature. Lovely setting.

Charming cafe in a great location. The service is friendly and efficient. The coffee is good. We didn't have time to sample the food but it looked delicious and we will come again to try it.