May 2016
Centurion_Dining_Newsletter_May_2016
April 2016
This month’s Dining News has a restaurant for every course. For all day European dining and pastries in Bloomsbury we have Dalloway Terrace, and for a more private dining experience, there is the Hay Hill club in Mayfair. If you are up to the challenge, Craft London in Greenwich has an impressive six-course meal, but if you just want dessert, The Café at Café Royal specialises in delicious digestifs.
THE CAFÉ AT CAFÉ ROYAL Just Opened
THE CAFÉ AT CAFÉ ROYAL London’s first dessert restaurant is now open in The Café at Café Royal, with a selection of contemporary and playful tasting menus created by Executive Pastry Chef Sarah Barber. As the perfect choice to conclude a dinner or to celebrate a special occasion, each carefully orchestrated menu will include a range of savoury bites to prepare the palate, before offering a unique journey of sweet plates with an optional wine pairing.
CRAFT LONDON Hidden gem
Craft London brings a selection of culinary surprises to Greenwich, with a focus on crafted, world-class ingredients and produce. The Longer Menu is an ambitious six course tasting meal where guests can expect mains that include Smoked Eel with Fermented Leek, Sea Bass with Cultured Butter & Young Vegetables and Stichelton Custard with Kale, Leeks & Chanterelles. A destination restaurant, and the perfect place to have dinner when visiting the O2.
DALLOWAY TERRACE Just opened
The Dalloway Terrace has just opened in Bloomsbury, featuring an all day menu of eclectic international dining. Dishes include Beef carpaccio with creamed horseradish & pickled walnuts, hand-dived seared scallops, spinach, chanterelles & teriyaki dressing and Coqau-vin with crusty sourdough bread, all overseen by head chef, Paul O’Brien. Diners can also experience afternoon tea with a selection of carefully prepared pastries created by expert patisserie Mariatu Kargbo.
HAY HILL Members Club
Centurion Cardmembers can gain exclusive access to 12 Hay Hill – the new business members club in Mayfair and enjoy a series of seasonal menus from the renowned Michelin–starred Chef Shaun Rankin. The ground floor brasserie has a menu featuring seasonal, fresh Jersey ingredients, such as hand dived scallops, lobsters and crab from one of the freshest and cleanest seas in the world and Jersey Royals grown the traditional way under seaweed by island farmers.
March 2016
Spring is here and so this month’s Dining News explores some outstandingly fresh London restaurants. Tokiemeitē showcases Japanese fine dining in the city centre, whilst hidden away in Percy Street is the House of Ho, celebrating the very best of Vietnamese cuisine. Chucs is the perfect post-workout spot to enjoy Italian feasting on Westbourne Grove, and Frenchie brings a touch of Parisian enchantment to Covent Garden.
DINING NEWS
TOKIMEITE Recently Opened
TOKIMEITE Explore contemporary Japanese dining in the heart of Mayfair at Tokimeitē. The restaurant comprises of three dining spaces, each with a unique motif: En (flame), Mizu (water) and Moku (wood). Marrying the Michelin-starred cooking of chef Yoshihiro Murata with the acclaimed design of Yasumichi Morita, the menu offers interpretations of classic wa-shoku dishes, with coveted wagyu beef in a variety of forms, as well as various sushi and sashimi.
HOUSE OF HÓ Hidden Gem
The House of HÓ on Percy Street offers contemporary Vietnamese food in a relaxed, informal setting. The menu includes dishes such as ‘Pho Bo’ (a hot and cold Pho), minced pork grilled on lemongrass skewers served with a caramel sauce, and fresh giant prawns cooked in a flaming hot pot and served with Vietnamese greens and rice noodles. For drinks, the Lounge Bar presents an assortment of wines, beers, and craft spirits.
CHUCS Recently Opened
Chucs combines fine Italian craftsmanship and style with Italian cuisine in Westbourne Grove. The upper floor houses the brand’s new menswear collection, inspired by the effortless elegance of the bygone era, with the ground floor serving food and an Effe coffee bar. The all day menu serves classic Italian food, and mains include a selection of home-made pasta and pizza dishes, as well as timeless Italian desserts, such as affogato, zabaglione and panna cotta.
FRENCHIE Recently Opened
The fifth addition to the chain of popular French eateries, Frenchie in Covent Garden is the first to open outside of Paris. Echoing its French counterparts, the menu boasts simple and generous dishes made from British-sourced ingredients and employs trademark techniques, such as house-smoked meat and fish, vibrant seasoning and fresh flavours, to create French-inspired dishes that surprise and delight.
February 2016
Centurion Dining Newsletter February 2016
January 2016
Opening January
Chucs, will launch their distinctive menswear label boutique and restaurant in Westbourne Grove, Notting Hill. Reflecting the entrepreneurial spirit of
the brand and the current trend in the area for shopping and dining under one roof, Chucs new menswear collection will be housed on the upper
floor, and Chucs Restaurant and Cafe will be located on the garden level of the site. Chucs, a brand synonymous with classic Italian craftsmanship, whether dining or dressing, will enhance the area and offer Italian cuisine, alongside, lighter, healthy dishes, created by Alessandro Verdenelli, executive chef of KX gym, who will also oversee the full menu.
Ours
Opening – February
Tom Sellers (Restaurant Story) is opening a new Kensington Restaurant, Restaurant Ours, in February on the former site of The Collection on Brompton Road. The 120 seat restaurant will features a integral bar and upper mezzanine will features a large a dramatic open interior space. Tom Sellers will oversee the modern European menu and the head chef will be Daniel Phippard, who has varied international experience, most recently at Kensington Place.
Sosharu
Opening – March
Jason Atherton who will be opening Sosharu, his first Japanese restaurant in Clerkenwell serving teppanyaki, robatayaki and sashimi.
Clare Smyth
Opening – Autumn
Clare Smyth, who has held three Michelin stars at Restaurant Gordon Ramsay in Chelsea since her appointment as head chef in 2007, is going it alone with a brand new restaurant. Details are limited but the new place will open in the autumn with Gordon Ramsay’s backing.
Mere
Opening – Autumn
Best known as a MasterChef Professionals judge and before that, Monica Galetti was the senior sous chef at Le Gavroche. It’s now been revealed that she’s opening her own restaurant in Fitzrovia.
Centurion Dining Newsletter December 2015
Centurion Dining Newsletter November 2015
Centurion October Dining news 2015
May Dining news 2015
The Mirror Room at Rosewood London proposes that we take our time with a leisurely brunch and really get to know the food we’re eating, whilst Aqua Nueva promises to reopen with a bang, showcasing a stylish, energetic atmosphere. Toto’s provides an erudite Italian affair, and just outside of London Coworth Park Restaurant assures a quintessentially classic British experience.
COWORTH PARK
Whether it’s enjoying afternoon tea or a traditional Best of British menu, the elegant setting of Restaurant Coworth Park is sure to help you relax and unwind in a beautiful parkland location. Sourcing the finest artisanal produce from the Ascot surroundings, the restaurant prides itself on taking a modern spin on some of the most classic British dishes, such as Welsh lamb loin and shoulder, baby artichokes, fennel and aubergine followed by an assortment of local cheeses.
AQUA NUEVA
Located in the heart of the west end, Aqua Nueva is currently undergoing a dramatic refurbishment before its planned reopening in early June. The restaurant’s objective is to serve exquisite dishes, including an extensive tapas menu, using
the freshest produce available. The buzzing, stylish environment
is inspired by the Spanish food, with an open plan design created by Robert Angell.
MIRROR ROOM
The Mirror Room at Rosewood London showcases a selection of unique foods designed to be appreciated. Executive chef Amandine Chaignot creates a different menu each week using ingredients straight from the on-site market, celebrating the pleasure of food with a commitment to the community. Taking advantage of the fresh ingredients, dishes include poached lobster sandwich with thermidor hollandaise and beef burger with emmental cheese.
TOTO’S
Bringing a sophisticated slice of Italian cuisine to Knightsbridge, Toto’s is a cobblestoned, cosmopolitan retreat that serves a collection of vibrant cocktails and a selection of twenty cigars from behind a chic bar. Head Chef Stefano Stecca changes the lunch menu on a weekly basis to suit the seasonal produce, but authentic regional staples, for example veal Milanese or beef tagliata prawns, are available a la carte, accompanied by an extensive wine list to suit any palate.
March/April 2015
| Featured Restaurants – London | ||
| Kurobuta | Location | 312 Kings Road, Kings Road, London. SW3 5UH |
| Cuisine | Japanese fusion | |
| Web site URL Link | www.kurobuta-london.com | |
| Info | The original Kurobuta started life as a pop-up on the King’s Road but it’s remained so popular that it’s moving a few doors down to become the second permanent Kurobuta.
“Inspired by traditional izakayas (taverns) of Japan, Kurobuta offers excellent food to accompany cocktails and a cracking sake selection in a relaxed, informal setting” |
|
| Le Chabanais
Opens Spring 2015
|
Location | 8 Mount Street, Mayfair, London |
| Cuisine | French | |
| Web site URL Link | www.lechabanaislondon.com | |
| Info | “The first overseas outpost for the well-known Paris bistro Le Chateaubriand, Le Chabanais, open on Mayfair’s Mount Street in March 2015, is a cause for celebration for London’s luxury restaurant scene. Serving “an accessibly priced a la carte menu that highlights local produce”,
Self-trained Basque chef Inaki Aizpitarte, “one of the most feted chefs in France” (Bloomberg), has put Le Chateaubriand’s head chef, Paul Boudier, in charge of the kitchen and Kevin Lansdown, former general manager of Scott’s in Mayfair will oversee the restaurant. |
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| Chai Wu | Location | Harrods, 87-135 Brompton Rd, Knightsbridge, London, SW1X 7XL |
| Cuisine | Chinese | |
| Web site URL Link | www.chaiwu.co.uk | |
| Info | The first and most anticipated restaurant opening of the year, Chai Wu is a new contemporary Chinese restaurant located on the fifth floor of world-famous department store, Harrods in London. | |
Charlotte (Alexandra) Dutton – January / February 2015
| Featured Restaurants – London | ||
| The Manor | Location | 148 Clapham Manor StreetLondonSW4 6BX |
| Cuisine | Modern French Bistro | |
| Web site URL Link | www.themanorclapham.co.uk | |
| Reason for Recommendation/ Details on Restaurant / Reviews etc. | The Manor is a modern British bistro on Clapham Manor Street.Excellent inventive foods using great quality ingredients. The new style tapas/communal eating is very social and only made better with excellent food | |
| Tonkotsu | Location | 382 Mare Street, E8 1HR. |
| Cuisine | Japanese | |
| Web site URL Link | n/a | |
| Reason for Recommendation/ Details on Restaurant / Reviews etc. | The restaurant has room for 50 diners, and there’s a full cocktail bar with 14 seats serving up a wide range of Japanese whiskies and full cocktail list including The Earl of Pittfield Street – Havana Club 3, Chase elderflower, cucumber, earl grey and mint – and a Sansho Sour – Tanqueray Export infused with sansho, maraschino liqueur, sugar, egg white and bittersOpens on 12 January 2015 | |
| W36 | Location | 36 Golborne RoadWestbourne ParkLondon
W10 5PR |
| Cuisine | Traditional grill house | |
| Web site URL Link | n/a | |
| Reason for Recommendation/ Details on Restaurant / Reviews etc. | The clever guys and gals that brought the supremely decadent Beach Blanket to louche Londoners is back once more with another venture, this time in the top notch Notting Hill area.Food at this spectacular joint will provide hearty, meaty meals with an eye for flavour and season. Everything takes the guest back to a very British sense of quality and fun, which will be evident in the menus.Opens late January 2015 | |
| Duck & Rice | Location | 90 Berwick StLondon W1F 0QB |
| Cuisine | Asian | |
| Web site URL Link | n/a | |
| Reason for Recommendation/ Details on Restaurant / Reviews etc. | There’s been talk of Alan Yau (founder of Hakkasan and Wagamama) opening a Chinese gastropub in Soho for some time now.Details are scarce, but we hear it will be a casual spot serving Asian street food and Chinese-inspired cocktails. Opens End of January |
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| SKY GARDEN | Location | Levels 35 – 37,20 Fenchurch Street,City of London,
London EC3M 3BY |
| Cuisine | Seafood and Modern European | |
| Web site URL Link | http://www.rhubarb.net/venues/sky-garden | |
| Reason for Recommendation/ Details on Restaurant / Reviews etc. | Comprising of two restaurants, four dedicated events spaces and bar, Sky Garden is a unique destination for dining and drinking throughout the day and long into the evening. The all-day restaurant evokes traditional charm and taste with a modern twist; serving only the finest oysters, fish and crustacean as well as seasonal game, meat and vegetarian dishes. Come sunset, the space transforms into a decadent drinking destination for cocktails and stunning views. | |
Brunch in London (Similar to The Boat House in NYC or Ralph Lauren in Paris)
Dean Street Townhouse, Soho, Brunch served 8-1130 am Sat, Sun
Dining News
Sam Cattell 19th September 2014
SPRING
Skye Gyngell’s first solo venture, Spring, will open in London on 14 October 2014, bringing Skye’s acclaimed ingredient-led cooking to the new wing of Somerset House. In Skye’s own words, the menu will be “deeply in tune with the land and the seasons”, whilst the wine list has been curated by head sommelier Frank Embleton and consultant Jack Lewens.
SEA CONTAINERS
Freshly prepared, seasonal, sustainable and carefully sourced ingredients make up the menu at this new venture from Seamus Mullen and Executive Chef Luke Rayment (formerly Head Chef at Gordon Ramsey, Claridges). On the ground floor of The Mondrian London, the first Mondrian Hotel outside of the United States, Sea Containers is named after the landmark building on London’s South Bank and promises to be a landmark eatery in its own right.
Hidden gem
LYLES
Having opened in Spring 2014, Lyle’s is an all day restaurant from James Lowe (formerly of Young Turks and St John) and John Ogier (St John). The food is British, simple and driven by a common sense mentality. Lunch is a list of twelve dishes ranging from £7 to £15, while dinner consists of a set menu that changes daily, for £39. A rotating house coffee is supplied by people including Koppi from Sweden and Square Mile from London, all available for take out alongside baked goods in the morning. This adaptable format and emphasis on quality is perfectly in tune with the London’s thriving cultural scene.
TREDWELL’S, SEVEN DIALS LUKE RAYMENT, SOUTH BANK
TREDWELL’S
This September, Seven Dials will gain a new resident as Tredwell’s opens on Upper St Martin’s Lane. The restaurant, which is the latest project from Marcus Wareing Restaurants and with head chef Andrew Ward at the helm, will offer an informal setting for diners to enjoy British food with worldly influences. Quality and affordability will be at the heart of the restaurant, capturing the vibrancy of the surrounding area and appealing to the array of people that visit the West End.
24.07.14
| Featured Restaurants – London | ||
| New RamsayVenture(name TBC)OPENING August 2014 | Location | 11 Park Walk, London SW10 0AJ |
| Cuisine | TBC | |
| Web site URL Link | TBC | |
| Reason for Recommendation/ Details on Restaurant / Reviews etc. | Gordon Ramsay has bought up the site that used to house the restaurant where he properly made his name – Aubergine. Plans for the site are still being decided, but as Ramsay’s right hand man says “11 Park Walk is steeped in history and it’s so nice to be back in there, bringing together everything we’ve learnt along the way.”. | |
| Kanada Ya Ramen BarOPENING August 2014 | Location | 74 Wardour Street, London W1F 0TE |
| Cuisine | British | |
| Web site URL Link | Japanese | |
| Reason for Recommendation/ Details on Restaurant / Reviews etc. | Japanese ramen bar comes to London. Kanada-Ya comes from Yukuhashi, Japan where it was set up by Kanada Kazuhiro in 2009 to produce a new style of ramen and it has a popular outpost in Hong Kong too. This is the first in Europe – and they’re also planning some pop-ups around the country soon. | |
| MONDARIAN LONDON AT SEA CONTAINERS OPENING Summer 2014 | Location | 20 Upper Ground, London SE1 9PD |
| Cuisine | British and American | |
| Web site URL Link | https://www.morganshotelgroup.com/mondrian/mondrian-london | |
| Reason for Recommendation/ Details on Restaurant / Reviews etc. | The Mondrian Hotel on the South Bank takes over the Sea Containers building and will have a riverside bar and brasserie, as well as a rooftop lounge. Seamus Mullen of New York’s highly rated Tertulia is in charge of the restaurant while Ryan Chetiyawardana (AKA Mr. Lyan) is looking after the cocktail bar. | |
| Tredwell’sOPENING September 2014 | Location | 4 Upper St Martin’s Lane, London WC2H 9NY |
| Cuisine | British | |
| Web site URL Link | TBC | |
| Reason for Recommendation/ Details on Restaurant / Reviews etc. | Tredwell’s is from Marcus Wareing, but he’ll taking the role of restaurateur here, while concentrating on the kitchen at MARCUS. Here, Chantelle Nicholson is taking charge of what will be a “casual but informed restaurant – food you like when you like.” | |
25.06.14
| Featured Restaurants – London | ||
| Strand Dining Rooms | Location | 1-3 Strand, Grand Buildings, London, WC2N |
| Cuisine | British | |
| Web site URL Link | http://www.thestranddiningrooms.com/ | |
| Reason for Recommendation/ Details on Restaurant / Reviews etc. | This all-day restaurant, focusing on traditional and contemporary British food, is being launched by Mark Harris who has previously worked at The Capital Hotel, Simon Parker Bowles’ Green’s Restaurant & Oyster Bar, and Searcy’s at The Gherkin. Opens July | |
| Opso | Location | 10 Paddington St, London W1U 5QL |
| Cuisine | Greek | |
| Web site URL Link | http://www.opso.co.uk/ | |
| Reason for Recommendation/ Details on Restaurant / Reviews etc. | This all-day restaurant has the former Head Chef of Princi in the kitchen and Georgianna Hiliadaki and Nikos Roussos, founders of the two-Michelin starred restaurant Funky Gourmet in Athens as Consultant Chefs. Expect Earl Grey infused rice porridge for breakfast and for lunch and dinner dishes like grilled grouper, served in a squid ink bun with a tomato confit sauce. (Breakfast & lunch – dinner from July 3). | |
| Hixter Bankside | Location | Metal Box Factory, Great Guildford Street, Bankside, SE1 |
| Cuisine | Chicken and steak | |
| Web site URL Link | http://www.hixter.co.uk/ | |
| Reason for Recommendation/ Details on Restaurant / Reviews etc. | Mark Hix’s original chicken and steak venture Tramshed has been a big hit in Shoreditch, since spawning a City successor, Hixter. Now he’s continuing to roll that out with a new Hixter coming to Bankside, round the corner from Tate Modern, this Summer (and with more Hixters waiting in the wings. Opens late July | |
| Lima Floral | Location | 14 Garrick Street, London WC2E 9BJ |
| Cuisine | Peruvian | |
| Web site URL Link | TBC | |
| Reason for Recommendation/ Details on Restaurant / Reviews etc. | This is the second restaurant from Virgilio Martinez whose original in Fitzrovia was a big hit. This Covent Garden restaurant adds a ‘piqueos bar’ – the Peruvian equivalent of a tapas bar. Opens July 20th. | |
| Caterina55 | Location | The Heron, 5 Moor Lane, London EC2Y 9AP |
| Cuisine | Northern Italian | |
| Web site URL Link | TBC | |
| Reason for Recommendation/ Details on Restaurant / Reviews etc. | A new all-day Italian restaurant is coming to Moorgate, specialising in North east Italy’s Ligurian cooking. Soft launch July 30 | |
| Hawksmoor | Location | Knighbridge |
| Cuisine | Steak | |
| Web site URL Link | http://thehawksmoor.com/ | |
| Reason for Recommendation/ Details on Restaurant / Reviews etc. | With the opening of their new Knightsbridge restaurant, Hawksmoor have a selection of new and innovative dishes to go alongside their dictionary-thick steaks. From their Far East influenced citrus scallops with chilli and ginger, to delicious desserts, such as a Summer Baba; diners can expect something different from the new Hawksmoor location. The Knightsbridge establishment will open in July 2014. | |
25th May
| Featured Restaurants – London | ||
| LANG, GONG AND TING OPENING EARLY MAY 2014 | Location | Shangri La Hotel, LA, The Shard, London Bridge |
| Cuisine | Post modern with Asian twist | |
| Web site URL Link | http://www.shangri-la.com/ | |
| Reason for Recommendation/ Details on Restaurant / Reviews etc. | The Shangri La hotel is taking up 18 of the upper storeys of what is fast becoming one of London’s most recognised skyscrapers. Guests can enjoy vast views of the city, accompanied by a finely mixed cocktail, somethingmouthwatering from the gourmet deli or a delicious mealfrom the outstanding Ting restaurant. | |
| CITYSOCIAL OPENING EARLY MAY 2014 | Location | Tower 42, Level 24, 25 Old Broad Street, Broadgate,EC2N 1HQ |
| Cuisine | British | |
| Web site URL Link | http://www.jasonatherton.co.uk/restaurants/city-social/ | |
| Reason for Recommendation/ Details on Restaurant / Reviews etc. | Jason Atherton’s City Social will take its place on the 24th floor of iconic London skyscraper, Tower 42. Diners can enjoy a stunning backdrop of the London skyline while indulging in a creative yet understated menu, constructed in partnership by head chef Paul Walsh and Atherton.With a freestanding dramatic black and steel open kitchen in the centre of the dining room, guests will be able to watch the kitchen team at work while sampling a selection of cocktails inspired by 1910-1930s prohibition era. | |
| Fera OPENING May2014 | Location | 49 Brook St, London W1K 4HR |
| Cuisine | Creative British | |
| Web site URL Link | http://www.claridges.co.uk/ | |
| Reason for Recommendation/ Details on Restaurant / Reviews etc. | Claridge’s have announced that Simon Rogan will take thehelm at their new restaurant when it opens in Spring 2014.Widely regarded as one of the UK’s most inventive andexciting chefs, Rogan currently holds two Michelin stars athis flagship restaurant L’Enclume in Cumbria. Rogan’s trailblazing use of fresh ingredients and indigenous produce will be a defining factor for the new restaurant at Claridge’ | |
| KurobutaOPENING EARLY MAY 2014 | Location | 17-20 Kendal StreetLondonW2 2AW |
| Cuisine | Japanese Fusion | |
| Web site URL Link | http://kurobuta-london.com/ | |
| Reason for Recommendation/ Details on Restaurant / Reviews etc. | What’s new? A second outpost of Japanese fusion restaurant Kurobuta, located just north of Marble Arch. The original, which began as a pop-up, is on the Kings Road.Behind the scenes: Australian chef-proprietor Scott Hallsworth, whose honed his sushi skills as head chef of Nobu London and Melbourne.The concept: Inspired by traditional izakayas (taverns) of Japan, Kurobuta offers excellent food to accompany cocktails and a cracking sake selection in a relaxed, informal setting. Designed by Salon Edesia the interior is stripped back and rustic with wooden tables and exposed bulbs. There’s also a separate bar area and an outdoor space accommodating up to 20 diners. | |
| Verdi Italian Kitchen | Location | Royal Albert Hall, Kensington Gore, London, SW7 2APDoor 12 (Level 1) |
| Cuisine | Italian | |
| Web site URL Link | http://www.royalalberthall.com/visit/food-drink/verdi.aspx | |
| Reason for Recommendation/ Details on Restaurant / Reviews etc. | This is the sixth restaurant in the Royal Albert Hall, which has just had a £1mil refurbishment. It’ll be open to the public as well as concert-goers for lunch, dinner and weekend brunch. Taking into account its location, there will be live music every Friday evening and Saturday lunch from up and coming talent. | |
| Mode | Location | 35 Hoxton Square, London N1 6NN |
| Cuisine | Various | |
| Web site URL Link | https://modecollective.com/ | |
| Reason for Recommendation/ Details on Restaurant / Reviews etc. | This venue plans to have a series of “chapters”, each lasting six months and which will mean a complete redesign of the building, starting with “Future Vintage”. In charge of the kitchen is Andi Oliver. | |
| Lyle’s | Location | The Tea Building, 56 Shoreditch High St, London E1 6JJ |
| Cuisine | Modern European | |
| Web site URL Link | http://www.squaremeal.co.uk/restaurants/london/view/121133/Lyle’s | |
| Reason for Recommendation/ Details on Restaurant / Reviews etc. | James Lowe’s restaurant at the Tea Building in Shoreditch should be one of the big openings of the year. After big success at the Ten Bells, his all day restaurant will showcase his food and also aims to serve a damn fine coffee too. | |
| Beast | Location | 3 Chapel Place, London W1G 0BG |
| Cuisine | Steak | |
| Web site URL Link | http://www.beastrestaurant.co.uk/ | |
| Reason for Recommendation/ Details on Restaurant / Reviews etc. | Goodman, the people behind the incredibly successful Burger and Lobster are opening a new restaurant – this time focused purely around steak and king crab. Expect communal tables, sides, a big wine list and a limited spirit list too. | |
Submitted by London Expert Team April
| Category | Information to include |
| Top 10 Restaurants – Monthly | Avenue7-9 St James’s StreetLondon, SW1A 1EEContemporary AmericanAvenue Restaurant in Mayfair has beautifully minimalist décor and buzzing cosmopolitan atmosphere that wouldn’t look or feel out of place in Milan or Manhattan. Inside, the ceilings soar and the skylight stretches along an entire side of the dining room to create a bright, airy dining space. The chef has a passion for seasonal ingredients and the fantastic array of cultures, flavours and methods available to him in cosmopolitan London.http://www.avenue-restaurant.co.uk/ |
| Category | Information to include |
| Top 10 Restaurants – Monthly | Big Easy Bar.B.Q & Crabshack12 Maiden LaneLondon WC2E 7NAAmerican BBQThe original Big Easy has been a hit on the King’s Road and this forms the first part of a rollout for the brand. They’re promising “the most authentic, American fresh-smoked Bar.B.Q, seafood, cocktail and drinks offer in the UK.” and have attracted NYC chefs over too. Located in Covent Gardenhttp://www.bigeasycoventgarden.co.uk/ |
| Category | Information to include |
| Top 10 Restaurants – Monthly | Hoi Polloi at the Ace HotelAce Hotel, 100 Shoreditch High St, London E1 6JQBritishThe Ace hotels are always huge wherever they open, the New York one has April Bloomfiled in the house, and have a distinct hipsterish/trendy vibe about them. This Shoreditch outpost sees them bringing in the people behind Bistrotheque and Shrimpy’s to run the restaurant, which will serve seasonal English foodhttp://hoi-polloi.co.uk/ |
| Category | Information to include |
| Top 10 Restaurants – Monthly | Barnyard 18 Charlotte St, Fitzrovia, London W1T 2LYBritishOllie Dabbous to open second restaurant Barnyard on Charlotte StreetThe head chef at Barnyard will be Joseph Woodland whose background saw him training at The Square before moving on to Launceston Place. But it’s very much a project run by Ollie and Oskar Kinberg who runs the bar downstairs at Dabbous.The restaurant will serve dishes like homemade Sausage rolls with piccalilli; roast beef on toast with warm horseradish buttermilk and for desserts apple and cloudberry crumble with clotted cream, and bananas and custard. |
| Category | Information to include |
| Top 10 Restaurants – Monthly | Chiltern FirehouseOne Chiltern Street, MaryleboneLondon W1U 7PANorth AmericanThe kitchen is fronted by red-hot Portuguese chef Nuno Mendes, though fans of the trailblazing modern cuisine that Mendes pioneered at Viajante may be disappointed: here the food offer is more ingredients-led with a strong American accent, reflecting the 16 years Mendes spent in the States working with the likes of Jean-Georges Vongerichten and Wolfgang Puck (of Cut fame). Chiltern Firehouse is without doubt the hottest place in town right now: celebrity visitors sprinkle stardust through the dining roomhttp://www.chilternfirehouse.com/ |
| Category | Information to include |
| Top 10 Restaurants – Monthly | MARCUSThe Berkeley, Wilton Place, Knightsbridge, London SW1X 7RLEuropeanIn a nutshell: Marcus Wareing at the Berkeley gets a big makeoverWhy should you care? Marcus Wareing’s restaurant is getting a huge makeover for its 10th year at the Berkeley hotel, moving a little away from the fine dining of old and to a more “American” way of service (so that means no tablecloths for a start) although the menu will apparently remain the same http://www.the-berkeley.co.uk/knightsbridge-restaurants/marcus-wareing/ |
| Category | Information to include |
| Top 10 Restaurants – Monthly | One Kensington1 Kensington High StreetLONDON, W8 5NPInternationalIn a nutshell: All day private club-style restaurant spaceWhy should you care? A relaunch of Zaika, this is billed as a private club-style space that doesn’t require membership. Open all day from breakfast through to dinner, you can eat, or just hangout with friends or have business meetings in a super spot overlooking Kensington Palace Gardens.http://www.one-kensington.com/ |
April – Welcome to the new Centurion Dining Newsletter. We’ll guide you through some of the Capital’s most exciting eateries, from
hidden gems that serve seasonal produce, to celebrated restaurants with famous chefs at the helm
As you’d expect, we’ve got the inside information, and with your Centurion Concierge by your side, you can expect some – irresistible privileges at some of the featured establishments. – . – Sam Cattell
| NEW OPENINGS | |
| MARCUS | Following a stunning refurbishment, Marcus (formerlyMarcus Wareing at the Berkeley) has reopened, bringinga relaxed formality to the dining experience in a new,elegant and contemporary setting.Staying true to his core values of high quality produceand imaginative dishes with exacting execution, Marcuswill continue to deliver modern European cooking with aseasonal British influence. |
| TRISHNA | After a month long refurbishment, Trishna in the heartof London’s Marylebone Village, is reopening its doors.Delivering an innovative twist on the coastal cuisine ofsouth west India, Trishna received its first Michelin Starin September 2012.Diners who attend this intimate setting can expect simplepresentation and exceptional flavours through a selectionof carefully sourced and seasonal ingredients.
Hidden Gems |
| SEVEN PARK PLACE BY WILLIAM DRABBLE | Located in the St. James Hotel and Club, a stone’s throwfrom the bustle of Piccadilly and the boutiques of Mayfair,is Seven Park Place. This deliciously small 26-coverrestaurant by William Drabble was awarded a Michelinstar and four AA Rosettes just a year after opening.Meticulously sourced local ingredients and seasonal Britishproduce form the backbone of Drabble’s eatery that boastsa strong influence from his classical French training. |
| COMING SOON | |
| LANG, GONG AND TING AT SHANGRI LAAT THE SHARD, OPENING EARLY MAY 2014 | The Shangri La hotel is taking up 18 of the upperstoreys of what is fast becoming one of London’s mostrecognised skyscrapers. Guests can enjoy vast views of thecity, accompanied by a finely mixed cocktail, somethingmouthwatering from the gourmet deli or a delicious mealfrom the outstanding Ting restaurant. |
| CITY SOCIAL ,OPENING EARLY MAY 2014 | Jason Atherton’s City Social will take its place on the 24thfloor of iconic London skyscraper, Tower 42. Diners canenjoy a stunning backdrop of the London skyline whileindulging in a creative yet understated menu, constructedin partnership by head chef Paul Walsh and Atherton.With a freestanding dramatic black and steel open kitchenin the centre of the dining room, guests will be able towatch the kitchen team at work while sampling a selection
of cocktails inspired by 1910-1930s prohibition era. |
| CLARIDGE’S | Claridge’s have announced that Simon Rogan will take thehelm at their new restaurant when it opens in Spring 2014.Widely regarded as one of the UK’s most inventive andexciting chefs, Rogan currently holds two Michelin stars athis flagship restaurant L’Enclume in Cumbria.Rogan’s trailblazing use of fresh ingredients and indigenousproduce will be a defining factor for the new restaurant atClaridge’s. Commenting on the news, Rogan says:
‘I feel we have found a true partnership of creativity and world-class excellence.’ Exclusive preview Centurion dinner on Wednesday 7 May – contact your Centurion concierge. |
| DINING NEWS | |
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A, MARYLEBONE
A personal selection of my top 5 restaurants you must visit while in London
Sam Cattill
The Wolseley
Best for – Breakfast/Brunch/Afternoon Tea
This real-deal grand café now ‘epitomises London’ and it’s a genuine icon with ‘classless accessibility for everyone’. It may be notoriously hard to book, but the sheer cosmopolitan buzz is irresistible, as the jam-packed quadruple-height room weaves its magic with towering black pillars, marble floors and sparkling chandeliers
Le Pont de la Tour
Best for: amazing views of London Bridge and the Thames plus in the summer months they have a stunning outside terrace with a pop up beach bar and Ceviche counter.
The dining room at this waterside charmer allows you to sit back and admire the towers of the Thames’ most iconic bridge in elegant art deco-ish surrounds. Even better, order a plateau de fruits de mer from the seafood bar and head out to the terrace with a bottle of something chilled. The food is ‘divine’ classical French stuff, crafted with a light hand and served with a flourish by smart-suited staff.
St.John
Best for: Trying something a bit different, British Michelin starred dining at its best and rated number 55 in the World’s Best Restaurants
’Unfussy, unpretentious and very tasty’ is one verdict on St John, although it hardly does justice to Fergus Henderson’s era-defining Michelin-starred eatery – a ‘fine Smithfield stalwart’ of 20 years’ standing. There’s nothing flashy’ about the white-walled interior either, and be prepared to be bowled over by the extensive wine list.
Bar Boulud
Best for: arguably one of the best burgers in London, a must try
Sister restaurant to the popular New York outpost, Bar Boulud London at Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park is the heart of Knightsbridge. The seasonal bistro menu includes an impressive selection of house-made terrines and pâtés, as well as a handful of signature sausages and burgers, adding an American touch to this French inflected bistro and wine bar.
Gilbert Scott
Best for: dining in one of London’s most elegant dining rooms.
A stunning British brasserie and bar run by Marcus Wareing’s team and named in honour of the building’s original architect, Sir George Gilbert Scott. An original yet familiar menu serving British classics and utilising the best of British produce.
*
Charlotte (Alexandra) Dutton – posts 25.02.14
| Featured Restaurants – London | ||
| London House | Location | London House, 7-9 Battersea Square, Battersea Village London, SW11 3RA T: 020 7592 8545 |
| Cuisine | Modern European | |
| Web site URL Link | www.gordonramsay.com/londonhouse/ | |
| Reason for Recommendation/ Details on Restaurant / Reviews etc. | The newest restaurant in the GORDON RAMSAY collection – LONDON HOUSE. Located in the heart of south west London on the corner of Battersea Square, this relaxed, cosy restaurant offers Modern European cooking and a polished destination cocktail bar. Reservations now open. | |
| Peyote | Location | 13 cork street, Mayfair, London, W1S 3NST: 020 7409 1300 |
| Cuisine | Mexican | |
| Web site URL Link | www.peyoterestaurant.com/ | |
| Reason for Recommendation/ Details on Restaurant / Reviews etc. | Restaurateur Arjun Waney (owner of Zuma and Roka) has transformed his short-lived Mediterranean venture Aurelia into an all-singing, all-dancing Mexican stunner. This high-end and funky restaurant will feature on its menu a real mix of Mexican food and opened November 2013. | |
| Café Murano | Location | 33 St. James’s Street, London, SW1A 1HD T: 020 3371 5559 |
| Cuisine | Italian | |
| Web site URL Link | www.cafemurano.co.uk/ | |
| Reason for Recommendation/ Details on Restaurant / Reviews etc. | Angela Hartnett’s newest Café Murano – offshoot of the original Michelin-starred Murano in Mayfair – opened November 2013 in St James’s Street.The 75 cover restaurant focuses on the regions of Northern Italy, with Head Chef Sam Williams creating signature dishes such as Culatella pasta fritti, Fettuccine with wild boar, Roasted monkfish tail, brown shrimps and golden raisins, and Sausage stew with tomato and sage. The dessert menu features Vin Santo and Cantucci biscuits, Roasted fig zabaglione, and traditional highlights such as Panna Cotta and Tiramisu. | |
| Rextail | Location | 13 Albemarle Street London, W1S 4HJ T: 020 3301 1122 |
| Cuisine | Fish, Meat and Game | |
| Web site URL Link | www.rextail.co.uk/ | |
| Reason for Recommendation/ Details on Restaurant / Reviews etc. | Rextail is the second Mayfair restaurant from leading Russian restaurateur Arkady Novikov. The 120-seater venue specialises in fish, meat and game dishes with an international flavour.Starters feature Wood smoked organic salmon, dandelion, quail eggs and grain mustard, Tuna tartare with koshu dressing and pickled cucumber and Griddled red sea prawns, guacamole, chilli and vine tomato sauce. Desserts include Passion fruit and mango meringue bombe and Tropézienne. Head Chef is Adrian Martin (The Birley Group’s Annabel’s, Mark’s Club, Harry’s Bar, George and Bath & Racquets; The Ivy and Le Caprice) and General Manager isLivio Italiani. | |
| The Five Fields | Location | 8-9 Blacklands Terrace, London SW3 2SP T: 020 7838 1082 |
| Cuisine | Contemporary | |
| Web site URL Link | http://www.fivefieldsrestaurant.com/ | |
| Reason for Recommendation/ Details on Restaurant / Reviews etc. | Chef Patron Taylor Bonnyman, working in collaboration with Head Chef Marguerite Keogh and Pastry Chef Chris Underwood, offers elegant and playful modern British cooking with an emphasis on native British artisanal produce. Having worked in some of the finest kitchens in London, New York, Paris and Copenhagen the kitchen brings together its influences to create contemporary, seasonally focused, and ingredient led dishes. | |
| Hixter | Location | 9a Devonshire Square, London EC2M 4AE Tel 020 7220 9498 |
| Cuisine | Chicken and Steak | |
| Web site URL Link | http://www.hixter.co.uk/ | |
| Reason for Recommendation/ Details on Restaurant / Reviews etc. | The huge new restaurant on Devonshire Square is similar to Tramshed in Shoreditch and similarly, the menu is a changing selection of seasonal sharing starters (including Tramshed’s Yorkshire pudding served with chicken livers). Artists such as Gary Webb, Tracey Emin and Tim Noble & Sue Webster have been commissioned to add pizzazz to the already impressive venue decor. | |
Featured Restaurants – London – February 2014
| Featured Restaurants – London, UK – February 2014 | ||||
| Gymkhana | Location | 42 Albemarle street, London, w1s 4jh | ||
| Cuisine | Indian Fine Dining | |||
| Web site URL Link | http://www.gymkhanalondon.com | |||
| Reviews | New high end fine dining Indian restaurant in Soho.http://www.telegraph.co.uk/foodanddrink/restaurants/10459456/Gymkhana-London-W1-restaurant-review.html | |||
| Berners Tavern | Location | The London Edition Hotel, 10 Berners St, London W1T 3LF | ||
| Cuisine | British seasonal produce focussed – high end all day dining | |||
| Web site URL | http://www.bernerstavern.com/ | |||
| Reviews | Located in the new Edition hotel sure to be a popular dining spot with our cardholdershttp://www.theguardian.com/lifeandstyle/2013/nov/16/restaurant-review-berners-tavern | |||
| Merchant’s Tavern | Location | 36 Charlotte Road, London, EC2A 3PG | ||
| Cuisine | British | |||
| Web site URL | http://www.merchantstavern.co.uk/ | |||
| Reviews | Top chef Angela Hartnett has teamed up with chef Neil Borthwick (ex-The Square) and the founders of Brit-themed Canteen chainhttp://www.independent.co.uk/life-style/food-and-drink/reviews/restaurant-review-angela-hartnett-is-at-the-helm-of-shoreditchs-latest-highticket-opening-the-merchants-tavern-8925753.html | |||
| Rextail | Location | 13 Albemarle Street, W1S 4HJ, London | ||
| Cuisine | Steak and Seafood | |||
| Web site URL | www.rextail.co.uk | |||
| Reviews | Steak restaurant from Arkady Novikov (Novikov), Huw Gott and Will Beckett (Hawksmoor)http://www.independent.co.uk/life-style/food-and-drink/reviews/foxlowrextail-restaurant-reviews–its-behind-you-9012644.html | |||
| Casa Negra | Location | 54-56 Great Eastern St, London EC2A 3QR | ||
| Cuisine | Mexican | |||
| Web site URL | http://www.casanegra.co.uk/ | |||
| Review | Will Ricker’s sequel to La Bodega Negra is a funky Mexican joint housed in what was his Great Eastern Dining Roomhttp://www.independent.co.uk/life-style/food-and-drink/reviews/review-casa-negra-5456-great-eastern-street-london-8730959.html | |||
| Cafe Murano | Location | 33 St. James’s Street, London, SW1A 1HD | ||
| Cuisine | Italian | |||
| Web site URL | www.cafemurano.co.uk | |||
| Review | Angela Hartnett hits the spot again with this divine relaxed bistro style restaurant in Mayfair. | |||
| http://www.standard.co.uk/goingout/restaurants/grace-dent-reviews-caf-murano-9078011.html | ||||
| Bo Lang | Location | 100 Draycott Ave, London SW3 3AD | ||
| Cuisine | Chinese | |||
| Web site URL | http://www.bolangrestaurant.co.uk/ | |||
| Review | The brainchild of Moscow-born entrepreneur Aytan Eldarova, this specialist dim sum rendezvous is an exclusive all-day offer for Kensington’s fashion-conscious crowd, and it comes with a suitably sophisticated lookhttp://www.thetimes.co.uk/tto/magazine/article3912811.ece | |||
| Submitted by Hanna L RobertsonTop 10 Restaurants – London, UK | ||
| Chotto Matte | Location | Chotto Matte11–13 Frith Street Soho, London W1D 4RBT: 0207 042 7171: E: info@chotto-matte.com |
| Cuisine | Japanese | |
| Web site URL Link | http://www.chotto-matte.com/ | |
| Reviews | http://www.standard.co.uk/goingout/restaurants/grace-dent-reviews-chotto-matte-8856312.htmlThe man behind Ping Pong has taken over this large ex-Giraffe site and is creating a high-end Japanese restaurant here (the name means “please wait a moment” or something similar, apparently). it will be spread across three floors with a restaurant, sushi bar and cocktail bar with a menu by Jordan Sclare. Expect this to be much more affordable than Nobu. | |
| Smokehouse | Location | Smokehouse63-69 Canonbury Road, Islington, London, N1 2DG |
| Cuisine | American, British, Barbeque | |
| Web site URL Link | http://www.smokehouseislington.co.uk/ | |
| Reviews | http://www.theguardian.com/lifeandstyle/2013/oct/05/smokehouse-london-restaurant-reviewComing from the same people behind the Pig and Butcher, also in Islington, this saw them taking over another Islington pub with one very important added ingredient, Neil Rankin. Already one to watch after stints at Pitt Cue Co and John Salt, this has seen Rankin leap into the big league, with a series of rave reviews from the critics. You might struggle for a table, but there are still quite a few walk-in spaces at the bar and it’s also well worth dropping in to try out their large and regularly-changing range of craft beers and a platter of charcuterie. | |
| Berners Tavern | Location | Berners Tavern10 Berners street, London, W1T 3NP (at the London Edition Hotel) |
| Cuisine | Modern European | |
| Web site URL Link | www.bernerstavern.com | |
| Reviews | Quite possibly the busiest man in the London restaurant scene at the moment, this is Jason Atherton’s third London opening this year (with a promise of two more to come in 2014). But despite the quick roll-out, there hasn’t been a drop in quality at any of them – Social Eating House got a Michelin star in less than a year. This restaurant is part of the London Edition hotel and has what is a strong contender for dining room of the year. It’s already really hard to get a table here.http://www.theguardian.com/lifeandstyle/2013/nov/16/restaurant-review-berners-tavern | |
| Union Street Café | Location | 47-51 Great Suffolk Street, London, SE1 OBS |
| Cuisine | Modern European | |
| Web site URL Link | www.gordonramsay.com/unionstreetcafe | |
| Review | He may well have his detractors, but Gordon Ramsay really does know how to open a restaurant. Even taking into account the controversy over Beckham’s non-appearance, reservations booked up incredibly quickly showing that Ramsay’s a significant force to be reckoned with. It’s divided some critics – let’s face it, some will always treat a Ramsay opening as an easy target, but it’s been one of London’s most talked about openings this year.http://www.theguardian.com/lifeandstyle/2013/oct/19/union-street-cafe-london-review-gordon-ramsay | |
| Pizza Pilgrims | Location | 11-12 Dean Street, London, W1D 3RP |
| Cuisine | Pizza | |
| Web site URL Link | http://Pizzapilgrims.co.uk | |
| Reviews | http://www.timeout.com/london/restaurants/pizza-pilgrimsPretty much from day one, the Pizza Pilgrims (brothers James and Thom Elliot) created a huge amount of buzz about the Neapolitan pizzas they served from their pizza van on Berwick Street. Since then they’ve been to every food festival possible, launched a book and now their hit Soho Pizzeria. | |
| Gymkhana | Location | GYMKHANA42 Albemarle street, London, W1S 4JH |
| Cuisine | Modern Indian | |
| Web site URL Link | www.gymkhanalondon.com | |
| Reviews | http://www.theguardian.com/lifeandstyle/2013/oct/13/gymkhana-indian-restaurant-jay-raynerThis is the second restaurant from Karam Sethi, whose Michelin-starred Trishna was already a London fave. Gymkhana sees him expand into Mayfair with a modern take on Indian food (while harking back to classics at the same time) and some deadly cocktails. It was an instant hit from the critics and gained a five star review from the Evening Standard’s Fay Maschler – a rare thing indeed. | |
| Flesh & Buns | Location | 41 Earlham Street, London, WC2H 9LX |
| Cuisine | Japanese | |
| Web site URL Link | http://www.fleshandbuns.com | |
| Reviews | http://www.standard.co.uk/goingout/restaurants/grace-dent-reviews-flesh–buns-8760804.htmlHaving only recently opened the instantly successful Bone Daddies in Soho, Ross Shonhan followed it up sharpish with another hit with this underground restaurant specialising in Hirata buns. A grumpy naysayer review from AA Gill proved to be the only dissenting voice and this has turned out to be just as popular as Shonhan’s ramen joint. | |
| Grain Store | Location | Granary Square, 1-3 Stable Street, London, N1C 4AB |
| Cuisine | International (vegetarian friendly) | |
| Web site URL Link | www.grainstore.com | |
| Reviews | http://www.theguardian.com/lifeandstyle/2013/aug/10/restaurant-grain-store-london-reviewBistrot Bruno Loubet over in Farringdon, has always been a big hit with Hot Dinners but Bruno Loubet has arguably hit more headlines with his new opening in King’s Cross. Sat next to Caravan in the hippest square of London’s newest postcode, Grain Store has a much greater focus on vegetables than your usual restaurant and Bruno’s work here stands out from the crowd because of it. | |
| The Clove Club | Location | Shoreditch Town Hall, 380 Old Street, London, EC1V 9LT |
| Cuisine | Seasonal menu | |
| Web site URL Link | www.thecloveclub.com | |
| Reviews | http://www.theguardian.com/lifeandstyle/2013/jul/06/clove-club-london-restaurant-reviewThe Clove Club has been up and coming for a couple of years now, with supperclubs in the guise of the Young Turks and the very successful stint at the Ten Bells (which is still ongoing) setting them up for their big success here. Expect a regular changing set menu from Isaac McHale using very seasonal ingredients while Daniel Willis and Johnny Smith work front of house to ensure you’ll have the best time possible. It’s also worth heading down to the bar to try out some dishes from its menu if you haven’t the time/money for the full restaurant experience. | |
| Story | Location | 201 Tooley Street, London, SE1 2UE |
| Cuisine | Modern British | |
| Web site URL Link | http://www.restaurantstory.co.uk/ | |
| Review | http://www.telegraph.co.uk/foodanddrink/restaurants/10091117/Story-London-SE1-restaurant-review.htmlChef Sellers took a long time to set up his new restaurant Story, but it’s been worth it as the response and reviews have been so great that it’s now VERY hard to get a table. Expect a modern British menu, with some very inventive touches, which is tweaked throughout the year with new dishes. Let’s face it, who could fail to love the beef dripping candle? | |
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