ART: The New Soft Power in Fine Dining

As restaurants, galleries, and the art world unite, patrons are treated to a delectable fusion of visual and culinary delights. On this World Art Day, join us in discovering London’s premier dining establishments curating incredible art collections, where each meal is itself a masterpiece.

Mount Street, Mayfair, W1

In many ways, Mount Street Restaurant & Rooms epitomises the perfect dining experience. It’s chic and individual without veering into being quirky or fussy. Meticulously crafted cuisine is complemented by walls bursting with art masterpieces, and every objet d’art – from cabinets to lamps to dining chairs – is a visual delight. With over 200 pieces of art gracing its walls, including works by Andy Warhol, Henry Matisse, Lucian Freud, Ferdinand Hodler, Peter Fischli and David Weiss, Mount Street captivates guests from floor to ceiling.

Pollini at Ladbroke Hall, Notting Hill, W10

Already with the Wallpaper* Design Awards Best New Restaurant 2024 and a Gambero Rosso rating under its belt, Pollini at the new Arts & Social Club at Ladbroke Hall solidifies its status as a hub for creative expression and culinary excellence. Open to all, this 43,000 square foot space offers an array of cultural experiences, including contemporary art, collectible design, music, dance, and more. Pollini, by Emanuele Pollini, boasts a coveted three-fork rating, the highest distinction in Italian dining. The art program at Ladbroke Hall is curated by Carpenters Workshop Gallery, renowned globally for its collectible design and functional art.

Club privileges apply, see details.

The Lanesborough, Belgravia, SW1

Seasoned diners will agree that exceptional cuisine is elevated by its ambiance. At The Lanesborough Grill, guests are treated to both sumptuous modern British fare and an array of thought-provoking art. The Lanesborough has long championed this fusion of art and dining, exemplified by their ongoing support of emerging British artists through The Lanesborough Art Programme. Currently, they invite you to experience their latest exhibition and anticipate their forthcoming showcase starting May 9th: ‘Lost In Time,’ featuring the innovative work of Lucas Console-Verma as he reimagines lost masterpieces.

Club privileges apply, see details.

Sessions Arts Club, Clerkenwell EC1

Now, Sessions Arts Club, despite its ‘club’ moniker, welcomes all diners (excluding children) within the distinguished Grade II listed Sessions House in Clerkenwell. The former judges’ dining room features grand terraces, a rooftop bar, and a garden, offering a dynamic blend of dining, art, and performance through its ever-evolving programme.

45 Park Lane, Mayfair, W1

Diners at 45 Park Lane’s restaurants, CUT or Sushi Kanesaka, are treated to a slice of Hollywood with their meal. The Art Deco building exudes old-style Hollywood glamour, complemented by a curated selection of portraits capturing the essence of acclaimed actors. Currently, guests can enjoy a special exhibition in the reception and bar by celebrity photographer Andy Gotts, titled ‘And the winner is…’, celebrating the film award season until May 19, 2024.

Club privileges apply, see details.

Sketch, Mayfair, W1

Creativity knows no bounds at sketch. This iconic London venue transcends mere restaurants and bars; it’s a hub of artistic innovation. From their insane space pod loos to the avant-garde dining areas crafted in collaboration with famous artists, every space is a canvas. It’s a sanctuary for creative souls, where art, food, and music converge, creating unforgettable experiences. Current exhibitions within include: ‘The Gateway’ by Giorgia Ascolani in the Atrium, a take over by artist Yinka Shonibare in The Gallery restaurant, and a temporary installation by Alimi Adewale in collaboration with Pearl Lam Galleries at the reception. Coming May 1st, ‘Sketch in Bloom’ installations will enchant visitors, continuing the venue’s tradition of supporting ‘Mayfair in Bloom’ celebrations.

Club privileges apply, see details.

Dear Jackie at Broadwick Soho, W1

“Dream to inspire” may be a cliché, but Broadwick Soho and its Italian restaurant Dear Jackie, the idiosyncratic collection of personal photographs and sought-after iconic works merge seamlessly, making the expression ubiquitous. The hotel embodies a colourful mix of sentimentality from founder Noel Hayden with the vibrant aesthetic of Martin Brudnizki Design Studio. While some pieces are exclusive to resident lounges and rooms, guests can marvel at works by renowned artists like Francis Bacon, Bridget Riley, Andy Warhol and William Turnbull, alongside vintage relics and emerging talents like Faye Wei Wei and Casey Moore.

Club privileges apply, see details.

The Cocochine, Mayfair, W1

The new opening, The Cocochine, by former Petrus chef, Larry Jayasekara and Tim Jefferies of Hamiltons Gallery, has rapidly become a sensation. Situated in a charming mews at the meticulously restored 27 Bruton Place, it provides an ideal backdrop for its dynamic and ever-evolving art collection. Chef Jayasekara’s culinary creations offer a global journey of flavours, reflecting his Michelin pedigree honed over two decades of fine dining. Complementing this is Jefferies’ expertise, perhaps one of London’s most renowned gallerists, making each dining experience unique with an ever-changing display of artwork, ensuring that no two visits are alike.

Frog by Adam Handling, Covent Garden, WC2

Nestled down Maiden Lane, directly behind Frog by Adam Handling, sits The Frog Gallery. Wandering over to the space, guests are treated to a carefully curated collection from an artist selected by Adam himself in collaboration with Wishbone Publishing. The works reflect Adam’s four pillars: food, drink, art and music. Adam is passionate about supporting other creatives – the work of one artist is shown for 4 weeks at a time, rotating to highlight a wide range of pieces. However, if you visit now, you can see the works of a variety of artists in a collaborative event showing for a limited time only.

Club privileges apply, see details.

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