Modern comes from the Latin term modernus; pertaining to, or characteristic of the current period. It conjures up the excitement of something new, fresh and original. Pantry comes from the Latin word panis, meaning bread. A pantry is a cupboard or room which houses the necessities of life. Together, these two words embody The Modern Pantry's philosophy: the desire to please and excite the palate by fusing everyday cooking with modern ingredients. Since opening, The Modern Pantry has gained 2 AA rosettes from 2008 through 2012 and been listed as a "Bib Gourmand" in the Michelin Guide 2009 and 2010. In 2010 Phaidon published "Coco", a book showcasing 100 of the world's top up and coming chefs of which Anna was one. In 2011 Anna’s first book ‘The Modern Pantry Cookbook’ was published to critical acclaim and she was awarded an MBE in the 2012 New Year’s Honours List for her services to the restaurant industry.

The Cafe

The Ground Floor Café is a modern casual dining space serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner 7 days a week. As well as the 40 seat informal dining room, there is a small bar serving an eclectic wine and cocktail list and outdoor dining for 32 in the Square. It’s a great place to enjoy a three course dinner or lunch or maybe something a little lighter after the theatre. You can kick start your day with a healthy breakfast on your way to work or linger over a substantial brunch at the weekend. Come in and enjoy a cup of coffee and a pastry or a glass of wine and a snack at any time of the day

The Restaurant

The first floor is comprised of two elegant, light filled dining rooms overlooking St John's Square. Classic Heritage features are complimented with contemporary design creating an intimate and relaxing atmosphere. Together, they can accommodate 60 diners. The North Dining Room also features a semi-private alcove which will seat up to 12 diners.

Our Pantry

The Pantry – a small, modern traiteur – is housed on the ground floor of the townhouse, entered either from the Square or from the dining room. It serves an enticing range of inspired delicatessen dishes, sandwiches, soups, pies and pastries, cakes, coffees, teas and juices to take away.

The Foundary Room

Perched on the second floor of our Grade II listed building is the elegant Foundry Room. Inspired by the designs that have made The Modern Pantry a firm favourite, The Foundry Room can seat up to 10 diners on a round table. With a permanent exhibition of works by Kate Boxer and featuring a stunning vintage rosewood sideboard it is an ideal space for an intimate private dinner or special celebration.

The Modern Pantry is famous for its highly imaginative menu of fusion food from Kiwi chef Anna Hansen who takes influence from around the globe to create her inspired dishes. Lucky enough to be located in a gorgeous Georgian townhouse, The Modern Pantry contains several dining experiences to suit all tastes and preferences. On the ground floor there is a casual café and ‘pantry’ and on the first floor there is a stylish dining room for more formal occasions. There is also a small bar serving an eclectic wine and cocktail list and outdoor dining for around 32 in St John’s Square. However, most come to The Modern Pantry to sample the breakfast menu, which comprises expertly imagined dishes, such as sugar-cured New Caledonian prawn omelette with green chilli, spring onion, coriander and smoked chilli sambal, or the sweetcorn, feta, green chilli & curry leaf waffles with smoked streaky bacon.