London's oldest Greek restaurant opens after major refit

24th September 2010, 9:44am

Elysée, London's oldest Greek restaurant, has opened after a significant investment.

The refit, which took place over 12 months, has created three "elegantly" designed areas; a "stylish" ground-floor restaurant with a 1930s feel which seats 150 people; a new cocktail bar and lunchtime dining area, and the 700 square foot roof top garden which seats up to 40 people.

Elysée, a family-run business, has been working in consultation with chef, Rufus Wickham. Wickham has added a "contemporary twist to traditional Greek Mezze" with dishes including lobster souvlaki, pot roast quail with pomegranate and oxtail keftedes. 

To complement the Mediterranean flavours on the menu, top mixologist Jerome Armi, who has worked in some of the capital's top bars, has created a list with Greek inspired cocktails along with classics such as Martini, Old Fashioned and Negroni.  An extensive wine list is also available. 

Kerry Karageorgis said: "We are delighted to be re-opening Elysée and we've worked hard to make the restaurant even better than it was before.  The concept behind the restaurant is simple; build on our heritage and tradition, offer our customers a quality experience with outstanding food, drink and service and make sure that everyone who visits us has a brilliant night out."

The restaurant interior has been designed by Angela Markovic of Dom Interiors who has restored the Georgian building with features such as the Adams fireplace whilst introducing modern design touches such as the chandelier centrepiece constructed with broken plates.  

The use of natural materials such as wood, leather, silks, wool fabrics and hints of gold leaf help create a "relaxed style with an understated elegance".