Café de Paris Bar, Restaurant & Club

A lot has changed in Piccadilly since the Café de Paris opened its doors in 1924.

Fortunately, what has remained totally unchanged are the particular delights of this spectacular venue. Descending the staircase from street level imparts a sense of intrigue and the feeling one is part of an intimate, well kept secret. A further double spiral staircase leads into the restaurant where one can be at ease in the unchanged comfort which in the past has welcomed discerning diners such as the Aga Khan, Grace Kelly and Princess Margaret.

Not that Café de Paris is remotely formal and staid. It is completely relaxed and wonderful fun. Lit almost like a theatrical set, a large chandelier is a centre piece: the magnificent bar is backed by mirrors which catch the intimacy of candlelight and subdued lighting.

Jazz soloists and a trio play. Upstairs there is a mezzanine bar and a night club awaits the pleasures of diners if they care to stay on after their meal. Entrance is free for diners.

The menu is modern and imaginative with interesting combinations of texture and taste. Starters include monkfish and red mullet ceviche with grilled pineapple and lime leaf pesto and wild mushroom terrine with white truffle oil: and mains, grilled fillet steak with pommes pont neuf and beaujolaise jus and steamed sea bass with pak choi, ginger mirin and Soy. Desserts are a little more traditional with chocolate fondant layered with white chocolate mousse or caramelized peach tarte tatin with Courvoisier cream consorting to ruin one’s girlish figure.

The wine list is thoughtfully chosen to compliment the cuisine and the excellent waiting staff are always on hand to make informed and interesting suggestions on any aspect of the wine list and menu. Dinner costs around £35 for two courses and £42 for three. Worth every penny! Café de Paris sets out to welcome and entertain, take the best from what is traditional and add the best of what is new and imaginative: and it succeeds entirely.