Bottomless Brunch

What is a bottomless brunch?

A fixed price gets you a main course and unlimited drinks within a set time window — usually ninety minutes to two hours. It's become a London institution, and at its best it's a brilliantly relaxed way to spend a weekend afternoon with friends.

How it actually works

• You book a slot — the time starts then, not when you sit down.
• Choose a main from a set brunch menu.
• Order drinks freely within the window, usually one at a time.
• The clock stops at the end of your slot, and the table often turns over for the next group.

Getting the most from it (honest tips)

• Arrive on time. The clock starts at your booking slot regardless. Turning up twenty minutes late costs you twenty minutes of brunch.
• Order your next drink before you finish the current one. Service slows down when it's busy, and waiting eats your window.
• Check what "bottomless" actually covers. It's usually prosecco, bellinis, mimosas, beer or house cocktails — not the full bar.
• Eat properly. The food isn't a formality; two hours of free-flowing prosecco on an empty stomach ends badly.
• Check the service charge — London venues typically add around 12.5% automatically.

Is it good value?

Depends entirely on how much you drink. At around £40 for food plus two hours of drinks, it's decent value if you're having three or more. If you're a light drinker, you'd likely spend less ordering à la carte. Be honest with yourself about which you are.

Best for groups

This is fundamentally a social activity — birthdays, catch-ups, work socials. Doing a bottomless brunch alone is possible but rather misses the point. If you're solo, look at solo-friendly activities instead.

Frequently asked questions

How long does a bottomless brunch last?

Most bottomless brunches run for ninety minutes to two hours from your booking time. The clock starts when your slot begins, not when you arrive, so being late costs you drinking time.

What is included in a bottomless brunch?

Typically a main course from a set menu, plus unlimited drinks within your time slot. Drinks are usually limited to a selection such as prosecco, bellinis, mimosas, beer or house cocktails.

Do you have to tip at a bottomless brunch?

Service charge is often added automatically, typically around 12.5% in London. Check your bill, as it may already be included.