Sam's back
After running the incredibly popular Sam's Brasserie in Chiswick and Harrison's in Balham for an impressive 10 years, Sam Harrison needed a break.
In 2015, the local restaurateur sold both sites, much to the despair of food loving locals, and disappeared down to the Cotswolds for some much-needed R & R, but it wasn’t long before the big smoke began to beckon once more.
“The agent who was working on the Riverside Studios development asked them what kind of restaurant they’d like in the space, and apparently one of the chief execs said; ‘well I always used to like Sam’s in Chiswick’, so I got the call!” Sam explains.
And in November 2019, Sam’s Riverside opened its shiny new doors. Adjoining the newly reopened Riverside Studios, Hammersmith's iconic arts centre which had been closed since 2014 for major redevelopment, the impressive, 70-seater restaurant is right on the river, boasting sweeping views of the Thames and Hammersmith Bridge.
“I looked at sites all over London, but I wanted a local restaurant, because I prefer that relationship with customers. Plus, I am born and bred West London – it has always been my home.” Sam explains.
“When I saw this place, it was love at first sight! And with the Bridge being closed this whole area is so tranquil and peaceful now, although I know it’s probably making some peoples’ lives hell…”
Within Sam’s new space is a beautiful bar area, a smart 18-seater private dining room and a separate, very glamorous dining room, filled with marble tables, teal velvet banquettes and art deco-style lighting.
“I want coming here to feel like a treat without having to go into town, and somewhere you can put a nice shirt on and have a cocktail at the bar without it being crazy expensive. Everyone is feeling the pinch, but we still want to go out and feel special and have fun!”
Renowned chef and restaurateur Rowley Leigh is Sam’s culinary director and head chef is Harvey Trollope, who has previously worked at the likes of The Ritz and Wheelers of St James. The menu is modern European, with a focus on Anglo-French dishes and plenty of quality seafood.
“It’s accessible, upmarket comfort food. Food that challenges but isn’t too challenging. Food that I like eating!” Sam smiles.
“People are raving about the raw mullet and clams, and I think that the steak and kidneys on dripping toast will become a bit of a signature dish.”
And whatever you do, don’t miss the parmesan churros at the bar...
Speaking to Sam further, it’s evident that he has put the peace and quiet of the Cotswolds well and truly behind him.
“I am on the floor every day. You can’t put your name on the door and not be there, and I love it. I still get the buzz” he smiles.
“Nothing is quite like the madness of service, and I just love seeing people having a good time.”
Sam's Riverside is open now at 1 Crisp Rd, Hammersmith, W6 9DN samsriverside.co.uk
Published in the January 2020 issues of The Chiswick Magazine, The Barnes Magazine, The Richmond Magazine and The Wandsworth Magazine, and online at Essential Surrey and SW London
