One of London’s most historic restaurants, Simpson’s in the Strand dates back to 1828, and it has been one of London’s most iconic, enduring restaurants ever since.
After a three-year hiatus, Simpsons in the Strand - one of London’s most storied dining rooms - returns under the stewardship of Jeremy King. First established in 1828 as a coffee house and chess club, Simpson’s quickly became a favourite of London’s high society, famed for its silver carving trolleys and English roasts. Now, King - the man behind The Park and Arlington - has restored this historic site to its former glory.
The ‘Grande Dame’ of Simpson’s, the Grand Divan is the apogee of traditional dining in an iconic Edwardian salon. The home of the roast for over 200 years, its elegant cuisine is English to the core (and yes, the silver trolleys and Master Carvers who preside over them are there in full force.)
With its extensive à la carte menus, the Grand Divan highlights locally-sourced ingredients of the highest quality to create superlative roasts, pies, game, vegetable-forward dishes and puddings. Start with the 'Hovis' loaf with salted Jersey butter, followed by retro snacks, like a half pint of prawns or The Grand Divan Prawn Cocktail. Starters span venison tartare with melba toast, and deep-fried scampi with tartare sauce. While for main course, keep your eyes peeled for an ever-rotating 'pies and puddings of the day' list, plus more classic highlights, like a grilled Barnsley chop with mint sauce.
The experience is heightened by classic cocktails with a twist, an extensive wine list rooted in France and Germany, and rare spirits. Although the Grand Divan is technically a restaurant, it’s also a cultural institution, reawakened.
Also housed within this historic building is Romano’s - open-all-day Grand Café-style interpretation of English cooking, Simpson’s Bar, ideal for pre- and post-dinner socialising, Nellie’s, a late-night bar, and the Assembly Room – a private dining space.