Reviews
Reviews in the media
Andy Hayler's Restaurant Guide
The Dysart continues to be one of my absolutely favourite restaurants in London. Ingredients are impeccable, the kitchen technique is top notch and things are made the old-fashioned way, with stocks and sauces laboriously reduced rather than being poured out of a bought-in bottle from a company, as seems to be increasingly the case even in multi-starred London venues. The Dysart is the real deal.
A gorgeous Arts and Crafts building houses this warm, homely restaurant on the edge of Richmond Park. There's a natural ethos running throughout the highly seasonal cooking, which is best appreciated with the full tasting menu. Impeccably sourced ingredients and strong classical technique underpin assured, satisfying dishes where the boldly flavoured sauces are a highlight – be it honey and verjus with John Dory or a glossy sake sauce with Creedy Carver Duck. The warm, passionate service leaves no detail overlooked, and there are quarterly classical music recitals too.
FINE DINING LOVERS by S Pellegrino
The sense of restraint signals an alternative to the louder rhythms of London’s dining scene. Here, the narrative is not crafted from dramatic tableside flourishes, but from the confidence of a kitchen content to let its work be quietly persuasive. There is a thoughtfulness that permeates each element, from the harmonious construction of the courses to the unforced pacing of the meal as a whole. For those with a particular appreciation for nuance, The Dysart Petersham offers a dining experience where every plate is an articulation of both philosophy and craft.
AA and VisitEngland-rated places
Occupying a gorgeous 1904 Arts and Crafts building facing Richmond Park, The Dysart proves every bit a fine-dining hidden gem. Sunshine streams through leaded windows on bright days, while the elegant room's pastel shades, stone floor and generously spaced unclothed tables promote an endearingly relaxed tone. A log burning stove, oak bar and friendly, spot-on service add further comforting gloss to the classy, genial tone. Kenneth Culhane's confident, finessed, seasonal cooking delivers intricately detailed, light dishes of flavour, texture and colour; witness an oxtail risotto opener, delivered with aged rice, bone marrow and pickled chilli, and to follow, perhaps Cornish turbot teamed with spinach and a faultless lobster bisque.
This restrained and rather old-school Richmond gem was always good but has improved in the last few years to become a major culinary destination. Kenneth Culhane’s refined dishes are cooked to perfection and beautifully presented in the lovely setting of an Arts & Crafts house next to glorious Richmond Park. Unobtrusive, efficient and friendly service and an interesting selection of wine make every meal here a very special experience.
Any foodie worth their salt can appreciate the importance of provenance for any meaningful dining experience. The Dysart Petersham’s efforts towards sustainable sourcing, low-waste cooking, and supporting British producers continue to bear fruit. The Dysart’s nature-conscious ethos runs through every classically executed dish, ensuring that quality seasonal produce takes pride of place.
The Good Food Guide
Rated: Very good.
Celebrating a young Irish chef at the top of his game.
Celebrating the exquisite dishes from his vegetarian menu.
Celebrating a beautiful restaurant in a fairy-tale location.
Time & Leisure Food and Culture Awards
2025
Fine Dining Restaurant of the Year in South West London and Surrey
