An icon for good reason: heritage and style collide
Breathing new life into an institution isn’t always an easy feat, but it’s clear the subtle updates were well worth the investment when you experience the buzzing dining room at the Savoy Grill, where distinguished diners eat alongside a new demographic of passionate foodies.
The iconic Savoy Grill was reimagined last year by Gordon Ramsay and the Restaurant Group, and reopened its doors in April 2023. With a revered patrons list of top actors, politicians and influential figures, elegance and tradition are a part of this restaurant. It’s been feeding some families for generations and nearly everyone you meet with one foot in the London food scene has an anecdote about a memorable meal at the Savoy Grill.
With London’s dining scene expanding by the day and competition getting fierce, the Gordon Ramsay Restaurant Group and Gordon Ramsay knew it was time for the restaurant to be modernised and revitalised. To find a way to pay homage to the restaurant’s history while bringing it into the future and appeal to a new generation of diners who will continue the legacy of dining at this institution for years to come.
Afroditi design studio helped bring Ramsay’s vision to life while maintaining that classic magic diners know and love. The historic Swarovski chandeliers, Churchill’s favourite clock, as well as the original layout of the tables have been retained in honour of the long history that epitomises the world-renowned Savoy Grill. Diners can still feel the history and personality in the dining room, with the smart wood furniture, crisp white linen, luxurious carpet and faultless service ever-present, but with subtle changes such as more natural light and smart table light choices that elevate the space.
Much like the interiors, the food menu has gone through an elegant elevation that respects the revered dishes yet modernises them with new techniques. With executive Head Chef, Arnaud Stevens, at the helm it is no surprise that the menu is elegant yet creative. It’s a careful balance between pushing the boundaries of the classics while ensuring they are not tainted, or the flavours of the carefully selected seasonal produce are not overwhelmed.
These modern improvements are particularly evident on the Taste of Savoy menu; a five-course culinary exploration of the Grill’s past, present and future. At £110 per person, this makes a memorable gift for guests looking to share the signature Savoy Grill experience with loved ones.
The Taste of Savoy menu changes seasonally or when new inspiration strikes, meaning guests will often find new culinary delights to uncover. The expert sommelier team is respectfully there to guide you through wine pairings or general selections that may seem unconventional but are clearly an example of knowledge and passion.
The Savoy Grill is a culinary icon for good reason, having cemented itself as the place du jour for some of the arts and entertainments biggest names. However, the new era of the restaurant is one to marvel in, as the talented team perfectly strike the balance of paying homage to the past while delivering excellence and excitement to attract a new generation seeking the ultimate dining experience.
The Savoy Grill first opened in 1899, launching alongside the hotel it shares its name with. The Savoy was opened when theatre impresario Richard D’Oyly Carte — the man who brought together Gilbert and Sullivan — decided to launch a hotel with restaurants to complement the existing Savoy Theatre. The Grill, which has sat in its present home since 1904, has long been a celebrity favourite, feeding everyone from Charlie Chaplin to Winston Churchill, Errol Flynn to Elizabeth Taylor. The menu today stays true to that which was served nearly 125 years ago, with an offering that has long taken equally from the best of British and French cooking, with an influence from classic New York grills. Dishes from the early menus — like Beef Wellington — are still served today.
Savoy Hotel, Strand, London, WC2R 0EU
www.gordonramsayrestaurants.com/savoy-grill
Monday – Thursday –12pm – 3.15pm and 5pm – 12am
Friday – Saturday -12pm – 12am
Sunday – 12pm – 11:30pm
@savoygrillgordonramsay
