Review of Orion by Alex Webb: A Refined Seafood-Led Experience in Wimbledon

Nestled in the heart of Wimbledon, Orion is a French-inspired, British seafood-led restaurant that brings elegance, creativity and exceptional produce to the local dining scene. Owned and operated by chef Alex Webb, winner of MasterChef: The Professionals, Orion showcases the confidence and precision of a chef at the top of his game.

We visited to experience the restaurant's new set lunch menu. Upon arrival, we received a warm welcome and were personally greeted by Alex himself. The atmosphere is one of understated sophistication and culinary confidence. The open kitchen allows diners to watch dishes being carefully crafted and finished by expert hands before arriving at the table.

After settling in with a refreshing non-alcoholic cocktail, we began exploring the seasonal menuThe set lunch proved to be far more than a simple midday meal. Each course arrived as a visual masterpiece, thoughtfully composed and bursting with flavour, taking us on a carefully curated culinary journey.

Inspired by the stunning display of fresh seafood presented on ice near the bar, we began with the Olive Oil Confit English Trout. Beautifully executed, perfectly cooked and delicately textured, the dish was elevated by cucumber gel, burnt lemon segments and watercress. The bright citrus notes of the lemon paired harmoniously with the sharpness of the pickled cucumber, creating a dish that felt both refreshing and complex.

Equally impressive was the English Heritage Tomato with whipped goat's cheese, pickled red onion and basil. The standout element was the goat's cheese, presented as delicate glistening pearls that added both visual intrigue and creamy richness to the vibrant, seasonal tomatoes.

For the main course, the Grilled Hake with celeriac purée, red grape and frisée salad demonstrated exactly why British seafood deserves centre stage. The fish was exceptionally fresh, light and expertly cooked, complemented beautifully by the earthy smoothness of the celeriac and the subtle sweetness of the grapes.

Another highlight was the Grilled Courgette with ricotta, lemon, basil and courgette purée, an absolute must-order for those who appreciate beautifully presented food. Seemingly simple ingredients were transformed into a sophisticated and flavour-packed dish that celebrated the quality of the produce at every turn.

Desserts continued Orion's restrained yet elegant approach. The Early Summer British Strawberries with whipped vanilla cream, meringue and mint captured the essence of the season, balancing sweetness with freshness and lightness. Meanwhile, the Dark Chocolate Mousse with sea salt and olive oil delivered richness without heaviness, with the olive oil adding a subtle peppery depth that lingered beautifully on the palate.

What impressed most throughout the meal was Orion's sense of balance. Nothing felt overly complicated, excessively sweet or unnecessarily elaborate. Instead, each dish displayed refinement, confidence and a genuine respect for exceptional ingredients.

Sophisticated yet approachable, Orion is a welcome addition to Wimbledon's dining scene and a destination worthy of its acclaimed chef. For those seeking beautifully executed British seafood with French influence, Orion delivers an experience that is every bit as memorable visually as it is gastronomically.

Address: 75-77 Ridgway, London, SW19 4ST

For more information click here.

Written by By Claire Bloom

Image one courtesy of Orion | Image two by Claire Bloom