The Savoy, a legendary London hotel, boasts a rich history intertwined with culinary excellence. This opulent establishment is not just a place to stay; it’s a destination for discerning palates seeking a timeless and elegant dining experience.
A Sweet Tale of Pêche Melba
The Savoy’s culinary legacy is deeply rooted in gastronomic history. In 1893, Auguste Escoffier, the iconic chef, created a dessert that would forever be etched in culinary annals: Pêche Melba. This summery confection was named after the renowned opera singer Nellie Melba. The Duke of Orléans, captivated by her performance at Covent Garden, arranged a special dinner prepared by Escoffier. To honor the acclaimed singer, Escoffier crafted this exquisite dessert, forever immortalizing her name in culinary history. Ready to embark on your own culinary journey? Click “Learn More” to uncover the complete story behind this legendary dessert and unlock the secrets of its recipe.
A Symphony of Flavors: From Classic to Contemporary
The Savoy’s culinary landscape is a vibrant tapestry woven with award-winning bars and restaurants. From the opulence of the Thames Foyer, where history whispers through the elegant glass-domed atrium, to the sophisticated ambiance of the Beaufort Bar, each venue exudes a unique charm.
Indulge in Seafood Delights at The River Restaurant
The River Restaurant by Gordon Ramsay offers a breathtaking view of the Thames River, providing a captivating backdrop for a culinary masterpiece. This exceptional seafood restaurant invites guests to embark on a journey through the finest shellfish and seafood the UK has to offer. Imagine the taste of fresh oysters, ceviche, and caviar presented at the restaurant’s eye-catching raw bar. The à la carte menu showcases the artistry of the multi-Michelin-starred chef, Gordon Ramsay, with dishes like delicately spiced tandoori monkfish curry, grilled Cornish lobster, and whole dayboat fish.
Reimagine French Elegance at Restaurant 1890
Restaurant 1890, perched above the hotel’s iconic entrance, offers an intimate and elevated fine dining experience. Paying homage to the culinary genius Georges Auguste Escoffier, who graced The Savoy with his presence in 1890, Gordon Ramsay has crafted a modern French tasting menu with European influences. This exclusive dining experience, available only for dinner service, provides a carefully curated wine list to complement the exquisite dishes. The restaurant’s intimate atmosphere, with seating for only 26 guests, ensures a personalized and memorable experience.
Rediscover the Art of the Grill at The Savoy Grill
The Savoy Grill, one of London’s legendary restaurants, has recently undergone a transformative refurbishment by designer Russell Sage, who drew inspiration from the restaurant’s original 1920s Art Deco features. This historic establishment has witnessed the presence of celebrated diners such as Sir Winston Churchill, Oscar Wilde, Frank Sinatra, and HM Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother. Under the leadership of Chef Patron Stuart Gillies of Gordon Ramsay Holdings and Head Chef Andy Cook, the menu revisits the classic Escoffier-inspired grill rooms of old, presenting dishes like charcoal-grilled Chateaubriand with pommes soufflés, king crab and prawn cocktail, lime and chocolate soufflé, and of course, the iconic iced Peach Melba.
Unwind in the Timeless Elegance of The American Bar
The American Bar, a world-renowned cocktail bar, has long been a favorite meeting spot for Londoners and international visitors. This legendary bar, where iconic bartenders like Ada ‘Coley’ Coleman and Harry Craddock honed their craft, now welcomes guests under the leadership of Daniel Baernreuther. The American Bar’s award-winning team, featuring Head Bartender Erik Lorincz and Stefano Cossio, has crafted a cocktail list that blends classic cocktails, innovative creations, and tribute cocktails, all served amidst the bar’s vibrant ambiance and timeless elegance. The live pianist, performing American jazz seven days a week, adds a touch of sophistication to the experience.
Step into a World of Glamour at the Beaufort Bar
The Beaufort Bar, a timeless addition to The Savoy, exudes old-fashioned glamour. Its theatrical Art Deco interior, adorned with jet-black and burnished gold décor, sets the stage for a night of champagne, cocktails, and cabaret. The bar’s location, perched atop the hotel’s former cabaret stage, where luminaries like Carol Gibbons, the Savoy Orpheans, and George Gershwin graced the stage, continues to honor this vibrant tradition with nightly live entertainment and occasional appearances from cabaret legends and up-and-coming talent.
The Heart of The Savoy: Thames Foyer
The Thames Foyer, the heart of The Savoy, is a stunning glass-domed atrium, radiating natural light and sociable warmth. An impressive gazebo takes center stage, where a pianist plays during the day, creating an enchanting atmosphere. The historic Thames Foyer, where the concept of a dinner dance was born, is steeped in history and offers guests the opportunity to enjoy the renowned Savoy Afternoon Tea, which has been enchanting guests for over a century. The extensive tea selection, featuring over 30 varieties, is complemented by classic sandwiches, homemade scones with clotted cream, jam, and lemon curd, and the pastry team’s delectable selection of pastries.
A Classic British Experience at Simpson’s in the Strand
Nestled among the Savoy buildings, Simpson’s in the Strand, a historic landmark, has been an elegant backdrop for meetings, literary debates, and memorable meals since its opening as a chess club and coffee house in 1828. This timeless establishment features a reimagined Bill of Fare that brings classic British cuisine up to date, offering guests a culinary journey through time. Choose from the 28-day dry Roast rib of Scottish Beef or Daphne’s Welsh Lamb, carved at the table by the Master Carver, and served with Savoy cabbage, beef fat roasted potatoes, gravy, horseradish sauce, and Yorkshire pudding.
Unwind at The Bar at Simpson’s
The Bar at Simpson’s, a haven for gin-lovers, offers a menu featuring over forty artisanal gins. This elegant setting, adorned with sparkling mirrors, inviting sofas, and a checkerboard bar, pays homage to the original incarnation of Simpson’s as the home of British chess. The bar’s expert bartenders create understated yet unforgettable serves and a welcoming bar atmosphere, effortlessly blending the finest spirits, fruits, tonics, and bitters. Enjoy a signature gin cocktail crafted from gins created exclusively for the bar, including London Dry gin distilled by Portobello Road and Old Tom gin distilled by Blackdown Distillery in West Sussex.
The Savoy is more than just a hotel; it’s a testament to culinary excellence, a place where history and innovation intertwine, and where each dining experience is a journey through time and a symphony of flavors. Prepare to be captivated by the Savoy’s timeless elegance and indulge in a culinary adventure that will linger long in your memory.
