On 10 October 2011, Boyds Brasserie, adjacent to Trafalgar Square, will reveal its glamorous new look inspired by London’s forthcoming 2012 opportunities (Queen’s Diamond Jubilee, London Olympics, Cultural Olympiad and Paralympic Games). Following customer-led demand, the restaurant will be upgraded to offer a more contemporary space. The newly designed restaurant, eclectic lounge and chic bar will make Boyds a perfect place to stop at all times of the day.
Towering marble walls, sculpted ceilings, stone fireplaces and grand chandeliers make Boyds an iconic setting. Red Bird Design, whose previous projects include “Il Convivio” and “Brindisa”, has been tasked with redeveloping the space and adding a touch of extra sparkle.
Upon entering Boyds, guests will be greeted by a sumptuous lounge that is reminiscent of a bygone era. The chic lounge is now the focal point of Boyds and extends into well over half of the space. Red Bird Design has taken inspiration for the interior decor from the lively Edwardian period of the 1920s, with an eclectic ensemble of art deco furniture. Black velvet flock patterned wing chairs with chrome runners rather than legs, retro leather sofas, hexagonal black felt stools and fabulous Kings Chairs feature within the lounge. An assortment of unique, brightly coloured rugs will complement the marble floor. The lounge will serve light dishes, cream teas, coffees and cocktails.
The stunning black granite Champagne bar, adorned with antique mirrors, has been repositioned to the rear of the room and will feature new bar stools.
The carpeted restaurant area has been deliberately concentrated, and now takes up just a quarter of the space with a focus on more intimate formal dining. In the restaurant, crisp white linen tablecloths and napkins plus white candles will give an elegant appearance, while Philippe Starck Ghost Chairs will add a contemporary twist. Leather banquette seating and cushions subtly emblazoned with the Boyds logo, run along one wall. The waiters will be sharply dressed in black and white with bespoke cufflinks to solidify the Boyds brand.
The menu will focus on simple British food at reasonable prices. “British Tapas” will include Blue cheese, pear, walnut and endive; Crayfish cocktail; Lemon and thyme risotto; and Welsh rarebit. These will be priced at £7.90 for two plates, with additional choices at £3.50 each. “Mains” will feature Baked whole seabass (£17.70); Roasted Gloucester chicken with gravy (£15.25); and Leek and Sussex charmer quiche with salsa verdi (£12.50). The pudding selection, priced at £6.50 each, comprises of Peach Melba sundae; and Chocolate tart with black cherry sorbet.
A “Pie and a Pint” offer, suitable for two to share, will include pies such as the Highland venison “Shepherds” pie and a pint of claret for only £37.20. A special “Lunch and pre-theatre menu” will also be available with two-courses for £15.90 or three-courses for £18.90.
Situated in Northumberland House, a stunning Grade II listed building, Boyds is perfectly located close to Trafalgar Square, museums and theatres, as well as Charing Cross Station. Originally built in 1887 as “The Victoria” hotel, the building was later requisitioned by the Ministry of Defence. After a multi-million pound restoration, Northumberland House has reopened its doors to the public and now features spectacular events spaces, alongside Boyds Brasserie.
- H and C News have been invited to review, we will report soon on what we find
Boyds, 8 Northumberland Avenue, London WC2N 5BY
T: 020 7808 3344 or www.boydsbrasserie.co.uk