When I arrived at No. 8 The Broadway in Cheam, it was clear that this was no ordinary outskirt-of-south-London restaurant.

With elegant decor, soft lighting, and stylish furnishings, the ambience instantly transported me to a more cosmopolitan setting.

The sleek, modern design combined with an inviting warmth made me feel right at home as I settled into my seat, eager to see if the food would match the upscale vibe.

As I browsed the menu, I was excited to discover that No. 8 takes immense pride in its culinary offerings.

We were told that at No. 8 The Broadway, only fresh food is cooked with the finest quality ingredients.

Each dish promised a thoughtful blend of flavours and quality ingredients with a distinct balance of classic dishes and sophisticated twists.

I opted to start my meal with an intriguing appetizer: halloumi coated in sesame and poppy seeds, drizzled with a thyme-infused Manuka honey.

(Image: Ezekiel Bertrand)The combination of textures and flavours sounded delightful, and I couldn't wait to dive in.

When the halloumi arrived, I was captivated by its presentation.

The crispy layer contrasted beautifully with the glossy sesame and poppy seed coating.

My first bite was an explosion of flavour with the salty notes of the halloumi paired perfectly with the sweetness of the honey, while the thyme added an earthy depth that elevated each mouthful.

The sesame and poppy seeds offered a satisfying crunch.

After my plate was cleared, I appreciated the comfortable pause before the main course arrived—just enough time to relish the atmosphere and reflect on the flavours of the halloumi without feeling rushed.

For my main course, I chose Duck à l’Orange, a classic that, I was told, requires a delicate balancing act of flavours.

(Image: Ezekiel Bertrand)

When the plate arrived, the traditional presentation suited the restaurant's elegance perfectly.

The duck breast was cooked to perfection—tender, juicy, and with a caramelized, slightly crispy exterior.

The orange sauce was fragrant and tangy, complementing the duck without overpowering it.

Each bite was a harmonious blend of rich and bright flavours, embodying a dynamic interplay of tastes that I couldn't have been more pleased with.

It was clear that the chef knew exactly how to execute this dish.

The duck’s texture was spot-on, and the orange sauce had just the right acidity to cut through the richness of the meat while allowing the duck’s natural flavours to shine.

Not every restaurant can take such a classic and elevate it so successfully—No. 8 had managed to blend authenticity and refinement beautifully.

By this point, I was thoroughly impressed, but dessert was still to come.

After such a delightful meal, I was eager to see how No. 8 would round out the experience, so I opted for the Warm Double Chocolate Cake with vanilla ice cream and cream.

(Image: Ezekiel Bertrand)

There’s something timeless about the pairing of warm chocolate and cool vanilla, and I couldn't resist this dynamic combination.

The cake arrived warm and inviting, its rich, chocolaty aroma wafting up before I even took a bite.

Thinking about my meal at No. 8 The Broadway, I felt thankful to have such a great restaurant nearby without having to go into central London.

With its elegance, impeccable service, and a menu that marries creativity with tradition, No. 8 truly brings a taste of fine dining to the neighbourhood.

Every element of the meal—from the expertly prepared halloumi starter to the indulgent chocolate cake dessert—was made with care and precision.

I highly recommend No. 8 The Broadway for anyone who wants to enjoy a high-class meal without venturing into the big city.