Almost 30 years after the original The River Cafe opened in Hammersmith and became, among other things, an iconic restaurant of Blairite era politics, it is making a much-coveted return.
But how will a second River Cafe fare in Mayfair, a mile away from the Thames?
Before you search for the booking lines, hold fire - is Mayfair even the right location for this second restaurant from Lady Ruth Rogers?
For two years rumours have flowed, but still, no one in the industry is any wiser as to where this follow up's final settling point will actually be. But regardless of location, Rogers assures fans that the famous ingredient-led Italian menu that got so famous will be the same, and with that, a focus on fine sourcing will return.
And with that, the same pricey - but best-in-class - menu of simple Italian classics will be reproduced.
Still mysteriously pegged as a 2017 London restaurant opening but with no details available, The River Cafe team are keen to peg this as of equal importance to the Hammersmith original, with no twists or spins on the menu or changes to the stylish interiors.
The quest continues - we'll keep you up-to-date with any news about a permanent location or opening date as the news comes in.
What | The River Cafe, Mayfair |
Nearest tube | Bond Street (underground) |
Price | £££ |
Website | Visit The River Cafe's website for more information |