Arlington – A classic Mayfair restaurant, reborn

Perhaps Le Caprice doesn’t ring a bell? Well, let us divulge that the original opened back in 1947, and soon became the preferred fixture of London’s social scene, frequented by stars of the stage and screen including Elizabeth Taylor, Madonna, Mick Jagger, Kate Moss, and was reported to be the personal favourite of Princess Diana.

Reopened under the new name, Arlington, by the legendary restauranteur, Jeremy King, who was also at the helm of Le Caprice; this new incarnation has absorbed much of the original, keeping a similar menu of classic European dishes, as well as interiors which hark back to the décor of its predecessor. It’s hard not to be starstruck by the number of legendary names that adorn the walls, with stunning photography mounted throughout the restaurant.

It still feels at any moment you could turn the corner and pass by an A-lister as your head to the bar or venture downstairs, and the restaurant has certainly seen its fair share of stars grace the hallowed doors since opening night. Of course, nothing turns our head more than a stellar menu of dishes, so without further ado, let’s get to it…

So, what shall I order?

Griddled Tiger Prawns, Spiced Kimchi Mayo

A gleaming plate of plum, griddled prawns is always appealing to any seafood lover and this first plate gives of all the right impressions.

The generous portion is complemented by a glossy, pink sauce of spiced Kimchi mayo. The sauce, expertly spiced, with that delicious tang and subtle sourness from the Kimchi is the perfect partner for the delicately sweet prawns. The dish was an instant favourite at the table. Our tip is to order a side of crispy chips to mop up the bounteous of sauce.

Bang Bang Chicken

Think luscious creamy sauce and melt in the mouth chicken, and you have one of the all-time great starters. Here, the sauce is in abundance and flecked with roasted peanuts and crunchy sesame seeds on top. The chicken is sat on a bed of delicately shredded carrots as well as pea shoots, which adds a fresh element to the dish. If only all salads could taste this good.

Shepherd’s Pie

Hearty comfort food has never looked so refined than with this glorious Shepherd’s Pie. This signature dish (top billing on the menu, I might add) had several coos from nearby diners as it passed to our table. It’s a classic for a reason and there’s really nothing not to love.

The temptation begins with a softly tufted, golden bronze mashed potato which has been artfully piped. Underneath, a deeply rich lamp with a luxurious jus, glistens off the plate. The meat had a pate-like softness which indicates it has been patiently braised for hours. This is most elevated cosy eating.

Chicken Milanese, Rocket, Parmesan

A simple Chicken Milanese can hit the spot when you want good, unfussy food done well. The chicken is beautifully tender, if a little overdone in this case but that’s just our personal preference. Complemented by an uncomplicated salad of rocket and hearty shavings on Parmesan, this is meal of simple pleasures. We recommend a side dish of their perfectly crisp chips.

Chargrilled Broccoli, Chimichurri Rojo

If you feel like you need to add a ‘green’ element to entrée, broccoli has never looked so good than with a striking accompaniment of Chimichurri Rojo. This highly flavourful, zesty sauce is made from roasted red peppers, coriander, paprika and red pepper flakes, which perfectly complements the charred and slightly bitter taste of the broccoli. It’s a match made in heaven and makes us wonder why broccoli isn’t always served this way. Utter deliciousness!

Hokey Pokey Coupe

It’s the name that first draws you in, let’s be honest. This decadently sweet, honeycomb dessert is the ideal treat for one, or possibly even two people if you can bear to share. If you don’t already know, the term ‘hokey pokey’ is the Cornish name for honeycomb, which we think is the most delightful moniker for any sweet confection. This dessert combines the toffee sweetness of honeycomb, along with vanilla and chocolate ice cream, and a rich, hot chocolate sauce. It’s utterly pleasing to the eye and spoon-licking good.

Perfect for…

Glamorous evenings, celebrations, anniversaries, date night, business lunches in style, family gatherings, cocktails after work, and long weekend brunches.

Do you need to book?

We would highly recommend a booking in advance to ensure you arrive knowing your table will be ready. Of course, if you are passing by it certainly doesn’t hurt to pop in and see if a table is available – the staff are all delightful and incredibly accommodating.

Where to find Arlington?

20 Arlington Street
London
SW1A 1RJ

Website:

https://www.arlington.london/

Nearest station:

Green Park