Simple suppers: back in the spotlight

In a fast-paced world, the singular pleasure of a simple supper with friends never loses its shine. From early bird dining to relaxed after-dinner cocktails, here at The Wolseley, we’re ready to embrace one of life’s greatest pleasures

A pinch of old-world glamour and a dash of European dining tradition means that dinner at The Wolseley is as much relaxed social occasion as it is an essential component of the day. Taking its cue from Europe’s grand cafés, whose expansive dining rooms are known for accommodating lively discussion, artistic debate and informal people-watching, our well-loved chequerboard restaurant floor is always an easy balance of social interaction and a celebration of well-made classics, from French Onion Soup to Chicken Schnitzel. 

THE ART OF DINING 

Our restaurant has its roots in café dining across Europe. Establishments like Paris’ well-known Café Procope, which evolved from a simple meeting place for coffee drinkers in the late seventeenth century, to a classic restaurant and symbol of uncomplicated French cooking, provide much of our DNA. 

We’re open throughout the day, but of course our hours are punctuated by the rituals of breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea and supper, each generating their own special atmosphere. And while breakfast at The Wolseley will always be a cherished staple, setting an intention for the day ahead, so for us, supper provides a punctuation mark at the end of a busy day; an opportunity for our guests to replenish, refresh and reconnect. As dusk descends outside, our lights are dimmed, the hum of conversation takes over the restaurant floor and kitchen stoves are in full swing. They might be serving up Wolseley favourites, like Steak Tartare, or our good value Prix Fixe (perfect for pre-theatre or post-work dining), including options like Soufflé Suisse and Pan-seared Fillet of Sea Bream (£29.95 for two courses; £34.95 for three). 

‘In one’s café, it might be said, the three major settings of society come together: the family, the workplace and the neighbourhood’ 

Noël Riley Fitch, The Grand Literary Cafés of Europe 

SUPPER FOR ALL 

From light bites and good value menus to special occasion dining, supper at The Wolseley is a democratic affair. Guests can dine from our all-day café menu, with its staples like Eggs Florentine or Steak-Frites, opt for a special favourite like Lobster with garlic butter, or unwind post-theatre with an omelette and a glass of Côtes du Rhône Blanc or an expertly prepared Negroni. Whether supper after a visit to the nearby Royal Academy of Arts, post-shopping at Fortnum and Mason a few doors away, or a relaxed catch up with friends, evenings at The Wolseley are always a special affair.