Claridge’s opens new restaurant bringing art-deco glamour to Mayfair
The famous five-star London hotel opens a new restaurant in a space that has been lying dormant for two years
London Grand Dame, Claridge’s, has softly opened a new food destination to replace its former Davies and Brook restaurant, with the new eatery expected to fully launch in September.
Aptly named Claridge’s Restaurant, the classically inspired but contemporary British restaurant is now operated in-house by the hotel, with chef Coalin Finn (formerly of Inverlochy Castle, Davies and Brook and Sketch) at the helm.
Served from the kitchen’s marble-framed doors, starters include buckwheat crumpets with truffle puree, and Dorset snails with parsley and parmesan croute, while mains feature wild Turbot grenobloise to share, artichoke agnolotti, and grilled native lobster with crushed Jersey royals and sauce Américaine. Moving onto desserts, pick from raspberry vacherin and a chocolate souffle tart with cocoa nib ice cream. A collection of all-British cheeses – sourced from around the UK, from Nottinghamshire to St. Andrew’s – are accompanied by cherry chutney and plum crackers.
The space was previously known as Claridge’s Restaurant more than 20 years ago, going through various iterations before becoming Davies and Brook in 2019. Led by famed chef Daniel Humm, also of 11 Madison Park in New York, the restaurant closed in 2021 due to a dispute between Humm and the hotel over his proposed all-vegan menu. The new restaurant, however, is much like Claridge’s itself, with its quintessential welcoming approach and all-day à la carte offering.
Inside, interiors have been designed by Bryan O’Sullivan Studio, with particular homage paid to the hotel’s art deco design heritage. A contemporary colour palette is complemented with Calcutta Viola marble and antique brass while mosaic flooring, central leather banquettes and dramatic pendant lamps – in the style of art deco architect Joseph Hoffman – add a sense of glamour. Artwork has been chosen from Claridge’s extensive private collection with pieces from Sean Scully, Guggi, Richard Gorman and two new bespoke commissions by Brian Clarke. Art aficionados will love the creative private dining room, which features a playful take on panelling by talented up-and-coming artist Sam Wood.
After a post-work or shopping trip tipple or two to whet the palate? Look no further than the high-gloss tortoiseshell bar within Claridge’s Restaurant to order an aperitif or classic seasonal cocktail. Highlights include the Ambre Highball – a white wine spritzer with notes of stone fruit – and the Peach Piquant mixed with tequila and mezcal.
Claridge’s Restaurant will be fully open in September and is currently open with availability. Claridge’s Restaurant is open for breakfast Monday to Sunday, lunch Wednesday to Sunday, and dinner Wednesday to Saturday.
Visit claridges.co.uk