Review on Cafe Monico
Cafe Monico is the latest offspring from the Soho House group, ideally placed for theatregoers on iconic Shaftesbury Avenue, set between the Gielgud and Queen's theatres. The building owned by notable British theatrical producer, Cameron Mackintosh takes inspiration from the original Café Monico established by brothers Giacomo and Battista Monico in 1877 on Tichborne Street, and later moved in 1885 to its current location on the newly developed Shaftesbury Avenue.
It's a very swish affair now, a capacious all-day dining venue that seeks to emulate the style of the grand European brasseries with an open kitchen and a mezzanine level, overlooking a central bar on the marbled ground floor. A stunning three metre vintage glass and brass chandelier sourced from Amsterdam takes centre stage, while walls feature oak panelling and there's French green leather banquettes and studded chairs set against polished wood tables.
Rowley Leigh has collaborated on the menu which showcases Mediterranean cuisine with French and Italian inspired dishes. From the all day menu kick off with Rowley's signature dish of parmesan custard with anchovy toast or maybe splash out and order the half a lobster mayonnaise. Main courses offer chicken paillard from the grill or mackerel vin blanc. Desserts are enticing witness, a classic crepe souffle Grand Marnier or chocolate and hazelnut roulade paired with Melba sauce.
Deft service by waiting staff in classical brasserie uniforms injects warmth into the experience and the drinks menu features classic cocktails, traditional aperitifs and a large selection of vermouths.
Cuisine
Modern European
Restaurant Opening Times
Lunch: 11.30am through until
Dinner: 12.00am (12.30am Fri & Sat)
Accepted credit cards
Visa, Master Card, American Express