Forest Review - london Restaurants | Christoff

Forest: Where Plant Therapy Meets Natural Wine in a Converted Railway Arch

Deptford's botanical oasis that's equal parts nursery and neighbourhood gem

My Honest Review

Atmosphere & Ambiance

The converted railway arch setting immediately sets Forest apart from your typical London eatery. The botanical-inspired decor creates what can only be described as an urban oasis, with cozy lighting that makes the space feel intimate despite its industrial bones. The venue offers both indoor and outdoor seating, though the space can feel decidedly cramped during weekend brunch rush with limited seating options. The atmosphere strikes a balance between calm and social - it's lively enough for conversation (scoring 7.0 on conversation-friendliness) without being overwhelming. The botanical elements aren't just decorative; they're integral to the experience, creating a plant-lovers paradise that genuinely feels like a community hub. The neurodivergent-friendly environment adds to its accessibility, making it a space where various types of visitors can feel comfortable.

Food & Drink

Forest's seasonal menu approach means the offerings evolve with the calendar, spanning from morning pastries through to dinner service. The kitchen focuses on small plates and sharing plates alongside desserts, all designed to complement the botanical setting. The beverage program is where things get particularly interesting - natural wines take centre stage, supported by craft beers and seasonal cocktails. The coffee program runs throughout the day, transitioning seamlessly into the evening's wine service. While I can't speak to specific dishes since the menu changes seasonally, the emphasis on quality ingredients and seasonal availability suggests a kitchen that takes its sourcing seriously. The natural wine selection appears to be a particular strength, with staff knowledge extending beyond just plant care into proper wine guidance.

Service & Experience

The staff here are genuinely knowledgeable, particularly when it comes to plant care advice - they'll remember your specific plant babies and provide personalised guidance. This expertise extends beyond horticulture into the food and beverage offerings, creating a service experience that feels both professional and personal. The team has developed a reputation for friendly service that's become part of Forest's community hub appeal. During peak times, particularly weekend brunches, the service can feel stretched due to the space constraints, but the staff's expertise and genuine enthusiasm for both plants and hospitality generally shine through.

Value for Money

With a price level of 2 out of 4, Forest positions itself in accessible territory without compromising on quality. The plant pricing hits a sweet spot with mid-range options, offering everything from small affordable varieties to larger statement pieces. The coffee remains affordable, and the wine pricing offers solid value for money, particularly given the natural wine focus. Student-friendly deals add to the accessibility factor. You're paying for the unique combination of expert plant advice, quality beverages, and the distinctive converted arch setting - and that combination feels fairly priced for what's on offer.

Insider Tips

Best Time to Visit

Tuesday at 11am is apparently peak plant whispering time when staff energy is at maximum for propagation questions and the natural wine selection is at its best before weekend crowds arrive. Avoid weekend brunch if you're claustrophobic - the limited seating gets overwhelmed. The venue is closed Mondays, operates 10am-10pm Tuesday through Friday, and 9am-5pm weekends.

What to Focus On

Focus on the natural wines and seasonal cocktails - these seem to be particular strengths. The seasonal menu means specific recommendations would be futile, but the small plates and sharing plates format suggests this is food designed for lingering over drinks and plant chat.

Christoff's Insider Tips

Located just 400m from New Cross station for easy accessThe venue operates as both restaurant and plant shop, so you can literally take a piece of the experience homePet policy allows outdoor seating only for your four-legged friends

The Final Verdict

Forest succeeds because it doesn't try to be everything to everyone - instead, it does its specific thing exceptionally well. The combination of expert plant guidance, quality natural wines, and seasonal dining in a converted railway arch creates something genuinely unique in London's dining landscape. Yes, it gets cramped during peak times, and the concept might feel gimmicky to some, but the execution and community feel make it work. The neurodivergent-friendly approach and various price points make it accessible, while the expertise on offer - both horticultural and culinary - gives it substance beyond the Instagram appeal.

Christoff's Rating:

7.2/10

Perfect For:

plant enthusiasts seeking expert advice with their aperitifcouples looking for an unconventional date spot with natural wineslocal community members wanting a neighbourhood hub that's actually worth the hype

Forest

Forest

Christoff's Take

Forest: Where Plant Therapy Meets Natural Wine in a Converted Railway Arch

My Honest Review

Atmosphere & Ambiance

Food & Drink

Service & Experience

Value for Money

Insider Tips

Best Time to Visit

What to Focus On

Christoff's Insider Tips

The Final Verdict

Perfect For:

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Forest

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