Looking for somewhere special to host your event in Covent Garden? It doesn't get much swankier than The Balcony Lounge & Bar at Middle Eight, a luxurious, boutique hotel in the heart of central London.
The Balcony itself is ideal for small to mid-sized events, boasting a sophisticated, flexible backdrop overlooking the Sycamore Vino Cucina Bar, ideal for afternoon tea, semi-private dining, networking or team meetings. Here, you can host up to 80 for a semi-private dinner, with larger groups able to host up to 100 theatre-style, or 140 with exclusive hire.
The Balcony features a central, statement bar with illuminated panels and marble counter. From the textured pillars, marble-effect walls and wooden floors, the entire space oozes warmth and nods to natural materials making it a beautiful canvas that you can make your own.
Catering is provided in house, and if dining at The Balcony, the team recommend either a set vegan menu designed specifically for this space or a group feasting menu. The vegan options start with nibbles such as Italian artisan breads with extra virgin olive oil and balsamic to start, followed by bruschetta of datterini tomatoes, black garlic aioli, basil and shallot dressing. Moving onto mains, guests can expect baked courgette with tomato salsa and pine nut crumble, served with tenderstem broccoli and new potatoes, and finishing up with a Sicilian watermelon pudding, with strawberry and yuzu sorbet.
Elsewhere, the feasting menu begins with sharing platters packed full of charcuterie, gnocco fritto, pickles and fig jam, or smoked salmon with pickled red onion and rye bread. Guests can choose between a selection of mains which may include the likes of Chianti braised short rib with savoy cabbage, barley, porcini and gremolata, or cod fillet with cannellini beans in a clam sauce. Those with a sweet tooth will love the dark chocolate and mandarin mousse or the apple and walnut strudel paired with vanilla ice cream.
Of course, it's not a celebration without a drinks selection, and the events team can help you create a package for your group with wines, cocktails and spirits.