There are a few restaurants in London that need no introduction, and Bluebird is definitely one of them. In our review, we explore how this iconic venue has evolved and why it remains a hotspot for celebrities, socialites and those who want to experience the essence of Chelsea.
Motoring heritage
Back in the 1920s, the building was home to the Bluebird Garage, owned by the Bluebird Motor Company. The grade-II listed Art Deco building was designed by architect Robert Sharp and embodies the heady days of motoring pioneers like co-owner Malcolm Campbell, who won nine world land speed records and was the first person to drive over 300mph in his famous car, the Bluebird. At 50,000 sq ft it was Europe’s largest motor car facility, selling petrol, servicing automobiles, and even providing accommodation for motorists and their chauffeurs.
It went bust in 1927 and was eventually replaced by an ambulance station. Seventy years later, the building, which had by then fallen into generally poor condition, was bought by the late designer Sir Terence Conran. A trailblazer in British design and culture, Conran transformed the way people live and dine in the Britain – a change that was reflected in Bluebird’s future and altered it forever. After major refurbishment, he converted the property into the “Bluebird Gastrodrome,” which comprised a restaurant, bar, café, and private dining rooms.
Made in Chelsea
The garage area was occupied by the Sainsbury’s supermarket chain as an experimental “concept” shop. Sainsbury’s withdrew from the space in 2004, making way for “The Shop at Bluebird,” a high-end store offering clothing, furniture, books, and even a luxury spa. The latter attracted celebrity clientele, including Kylie Minogue as a regular, while the Gastrodrome quickly became a firm favourite location on the TV show Made In Chelsea. The venue has been featured more times than we can count and built up a reputation as a celebrity hotspot.
In 2006, D&D London, a high-end restaurant group co-founded by Conran, became the new owner of Bluebird. Despite Conran selling 49% of the company one year later, D&D continues to fully embody his spirit of innovation.
The buzzy Bluebird is rumoured to be the Princess of Wales’ favourite London haunt, and Kate was often photographed having lunch on the al fresco terrace here with her sister Pippa before she married William.
New chapter
In 2016, the space underwent a full makeover. Now, it’s a Chelsea landmark on the King’s Road and an all-year-round oasis with a mini rainforest.
Bluebird features several distinct areas, each separated yet intrinsically connected. These include a casual all-day café, an ever-popular courtyard (even in the rain), and a dining space upstairs. Breakfast is served until 11:30am, and on weekends, it seamlessly transitions into brunch. During the day, Chelsea locals drop by for cocktails in the ground-floor Secret Garden.
Upstairs, you’ll find a round bar and the main restaurant, both situated within the old car showroom. The entire first floor retains industrial elements of its 20th-century heritage, including the garage’s original steel frame, now painted red.
Industrial yet glamorous interior
The décor blends industrial chic with refined elegance, combining a New York loft aesthetic with a touch of sophistication. Floral displays and trees scattered throughout the restaurant create a sense of calm, bringing the outdoors in. Soaring rust-coloured steel rafters and large leaded glass picture windows that overlook the bustling King’s Road below create a striking focal point. Here, you can enjoy a pre-dinner aperitif, soaking in the atmosphere and spectacle.
You’ll receive a drinks menu that resembles an illustrated history book, featuring Bluebird’s most important moments through history. Whether you’re in the mood for a boilermaker, a glass of natural wine, or an inventive cocktail unlike anything you’ve ever imagined, you’ll find it here. Bluebird’s favorite spirits include the ‘King’s Road,’ a mix of the citrus heart of Tanqueray No.10 with Tarquin’s Rhubarb Gin, and the ‘SW3,’ which combines Casamigos Blanco, rose liqueur, rose syrup, and other unique ingredients.
Modern European classics
There’s a tangible air of anticipation as you wait to be seated. Despite being regularly full of diners, each table feels private and not too overlooked, avoiding the intrusive vibe that busy places sometimes have. The atmosphere remains exclusive and classy, with plenty of backdrops perfect for capturing pretty pictures, especially being surrounded by plants.
At first glance, the food might seem classic, but there’s great skill in crafting dishes like Herb & Butter Roasted Chicken or Ribeye Steak. Start your meal with a Crab California Roll and Seared Beef Tataki with truffled citrus – trust us, you won’t want to share. However, the decadent Oscietra Caviar with blinis, chives, and crème fraîche is ideal for sharing.
What to order
For the main course, we recommend the Grilled Monkfish Tail wrapped in Jamón (served with kale, white asparagus, and lobster velouté) or the Dry Aged Old Spot Pork Chops. Meat lovers will be especially delighted by the tantalising, smoky pork with its flavourful fat, rich meat, and tender texture.
Accompany your meal with Truffle Mashed Potatoes and Purple Sprouting Broccoli for a hearty side. For dessert, try the Bluebird Golden Egg with honeycomb crumble, featuring a theatrical moment when strawberry sauce melts the egg. The Summer Berry Cheesecake and Eton Mess might not be as dramatic but are equally delicious.
If you dine on a Friday or Saturday night, you can stay for a DJ set and dance the night away. Alternatively, take a stroll around London’s most stylish neighbourhood. Either way, thanks to Bluebird’s upbeat atmosphere, you’ll leave this place feeling like a celebrity.
Bluebird is located at 350 King’s Rd, London SW3 5UU. More information can be found here.
Image credits: © Bluebird, Travel with Style
