The Vibe
"Wimbledon Village, perched high on the hill, could scarcely be a more landlocked spot, which is why it's bold of MasterChef: The Professionals winner Alex Webb to open a new restaurant here that plays to ideas of refined New England coastal retreats, or perhaps the kind of coolly moneyed destination you might find in Devon or Dorset. None of it would matter were Orion not one of the year's most successful and ambitious new openings, serving Michelin-quality food with flair, enthusiasm and no little humour. Wimbledon has historically struggled to match its affluent surroundings with genuinely top-notch restaurants. Now, thankfully, the wait is over."
The Welcome
Webb himself is very much in evidence, both in the kitchen and front of house, meaning that his admirers won’t be disappointed. A friendly yet charismatic young man – still only 31 – he’s got a crack team of similarly able staff around him. Our waiter, Taio, was a particular delight, blessed with fine comic timing; when we compliment his smart leather apron, complete with Webb’s logo embossed upon it, he said, deadpan, “£150 each, and I had to pay for it myself.” If you sit in the bar upon arrival, then you can sample the first fruits of Webb’s labours in the form of a crisp, clear Caprese martini, and, even better, the house speciality of the ‘Bloody Good Mary’, created by David & Dylan and blending vodka, tomato consommé, jalapeno juice, lemon juice and Worcestershire sauce. It has a real kick to it, and begins the meal on a high note.
The Food
Webb is a chef’s chef par excellence, as a much-acclaimed stint at the Intercontinental a few years ago proved; as such, everything served up here is a real delight. A lot of the dishes are witty twists on old favourites: a starter of lobster and prawn toast offers a spin on this Chinatown staple, while a special of dressed crab has the saline freshness of that day’s catch. The deeply personal nature of Webb’s establishment is evident in ‘Dad’s bread’, a homage to his late father, and by the time that you get onto main courses – in our case, delicious halibut and loin of Tamworth pig that has all the full-flavoured chutzpah of the very best Iberico pork – it’s impossible not to be impressed. But it’s not all chef’s pyrotechnics, either; a main of fish and chips is simple, affectionate (check out the chip shop curry sauce it comes with) and very, very good indeed. It features on the excellent value set menu – two courses for £30 – which is a real bargain for cooking of this exalted calibre.
The Drink
The cocktails are terrific, both the classics and the spins on old favourites – we also loved a ‘Carajillo’, a rum-infused take on an espresso martini. The wine list is short, well-chosen and has a wide selection by the glass, offering lighter, fresher options and heavier, richer ones. From the former category, a couple of glasses of Vinho Verde and Albarino are the perfect accompaniments to the starter, and from the latter, Taio’s recommendation of a spectacular Pouilly-Fouissé – very much in the ‘special treat’ category – works beautifully with both pork and halibut alike. And for the deep-pocketed, there are some serious vintages at the higher end of the menu that will be the perfect complement to the spectacular dishes.
The Verdict
There are two puddings on offer – spectacular chocolate mousse and, appropriately for Wimbledon, strawberries and cream – which are both served from a very tempting tray. Finally, replete and very satisfied, it’s time to go. Yet you don’t leave here feeling over-stuffed, as is the case at many inferior establishments. Instead, you depart impressed, happy and in awe of the considerable talents of Mr Webb, who has firmly established himself in the premier league of London restaurateurs with this particularly starry constellation. It is, unsurprisingly, booked solid during the Wimbledon championships, and when word gets out, getting a reservation will be just as tricky afterwards, too.
By Alexander Larman
FAQs: Orion By Alex Webb
Where is Orion by Alex Webb?
Orion is located in Wimbledon Village, south-west London, a short distance from Wimbledon Common and the All England Club.
Who is Alex Webb?
Alex Webb is the winner of MasterChef: The Professionals and one of the UK's most exciting young chefs. Before opening Orion, he built a strong reputation working in some of London's leading kitchens.
What kind of food does Orion serve?
Orion serves modern British cooking with strong seafood influences, combining refined technique with playful twists on familiar favourites. Expect dishes such as lobster and prawn toast, dressed crab, halibut and Tamworth pork.
Is Orion suitable for special occasions?
Absolutely. With its polished service, excellent wine list and ambitious cooking, Orion is an ideal choice for celebrations, anniversaries and memorable dinners.
What are the best dishes to order at Orion?
Highlights include the lobster and prawn toast, dressed crab, halibut, Tamworth pork and the much-loved fish and chips served with chip shop curry sauce.
Are the cocktails good at Orion?
Very. Signature serves include the Caprese Martini, the 'Bloody Good Mary' and a rum-infused Carajillo, alongside a well-executed selection of classics.
Is Orion difficult to book?
Tables are in particularly high demand during the Wimbledon Championships, and the restaurant's growing reputation means advance booking is recommended throughout the year.
Does Alex Webb cook at Orion?
Yes. Webb remains heavily involved in both the kitchen and the overall running of the restaurant, and guests will often see him on site.
Is Orion worth visiting?
For anyone interested in inventive modern British cooking, warm hospitality and serious culinary talent, Orion is one of London's standout restaurant openings of 2026.
