The Chiswick Cinema Café

by Dia Stronach Chiswick’s first new cinema since 1934 is aiming to be more than its five screens, and is welcoming residents to its café as a new staple of the local community.

Formerly chef-owner of the Michelin-starred Redmond’s in Cheltenham, Richmond resident Redmond Hayward is helming the kitchen as Head Chef.

The café serves food and drinks throughout the daytime and evening, with a simple and meticulous menu focused on small plates. Redmond describes the offerings as “small plates of interesting food”, which encapsulates the fun but upmarket atmosphere of the location.

The slow lamb croquettes are a particular standout, and one of their biggest sellers. Vegetarians and vegans can look forward to the bang bang salad, a hot seller with a distinctive kick.

“People aren’t sure what to expect but I think they are pleasantly surprised,” Redmond says. He draws on more than just fine dining experience to curate the café, highlighting the food in San Sebastián as a favourite influence. The food is all fresh, with most of the prep and cooking done by Redmond himself. The only boughtin products are the Wagyu burgers and meat-free products, with as many ingredients as possible locally sourced at a great quality.

The Chiswick Cinema does also offer familiar cinema food with a twist, in a fantastic range of burgers and hot dogs. These are no less lovingly curat-

ed. The burgers and hot dogs are all delicious and unique, with well-curated garnishes, buns, and sides. The veggie burger is also a huge hit, slightly spicy with a great texture, its own delicious garnish, and a fun beetroot bun.

Indeed, the café is ever-adapting, with a new seasonal menu expected this month. In addition to new offerings on the main menu, the café are excited to begin offe3ring desserts (although gourmet popcorn and ice cream are both currently available).

The café sits at the heart of the cinema, which operates five screens as well as a members bar and private dining space. The member’s bar and dining room, which are available for private hire, have their own set menus, which anyone booking can discuss with the chef in advance.

Another notable feature is their roof terrace, which is home to the stunning 100 m2 green wall of over 5000 different plants and is a standout feature on the High Road. The organisers say the biodiverse habitat is already attracting local wildlife, and the terrace offers a beautiful leafy view of Chiswick.

Whether it’s for a showing, a meal, or just to enjoy the ambience, we definitely recommend The Chiswick Cinema!