Oetker Collection has confirmed The Lanesborough’s restaurant, formerly known as Apsleys, will open as Céleste, hailing a new culinary era for the hotel officially re-opening on 15th July 2015. French inspired, the cuisine will be modern and imaginative, using only the best of British ingredients.
Florian Favario, Executive Chef of The Lanesborough was chosen by Chef Patron Eric Frechon – Paris’ most esteemed three Michelin-starred chef and leading figure at Oetker Collection’s Le Bristol since 1999 – to lead one of London’s most celebrated addresses into a new gastronomic chapter. Formerly Head Chef at Epicure in Paris, Florian brings a wealth of experience and creativity, inspired by his travels to add to his generous, rigorous yet refined gourmet cuisine.
Cuisine
The cuisine at Céleste will draw on traditional French ‘savoir faire’, whilst championing the authenticity of the finest British organic produce. Speaking on the philosophy behind the cuisine, Eric commented:
“The menu takes inspiration from London as a global capital for cuisine, with flavours including herbs and spices. By building relationships with local suppliers, we will use the best ingredients the country has to offer, prepared using classic French techniques.”
Signature dishes include Jellied Mackerel with cream of horseradish and blueberries, Devon Lamb with courgette couscous and harissa, as well as Raspberries with ginger and lime, coconut sorbet.
Interior design
New interiors by Alberto Pinto will be unveiled, taking the restaurant back to the Regency heritage in line with the rest of The Lanesborough. Within Céleste, 250 different mouldings were created to achieve the historic scene in bas-relief that surrounds the frise under the sky dome. English crystal chandeliers illuminate the delicate detailing, with the largest weighing 200kg and stretching two metres wide.
The name ‘Céleste’ derives from the late 19th century, from the French word meaning ‘heavenly’. Pertaining to the sky framed by the restaurant’s glass domed roof, the name also acknowledges the Gallic influence of the French chefs and alludes to a celestial gastronomic experience.
The conservatory roof allows daylight to flood in for a light lunch and the mood evolves throughout the day for an indulgent dinner experience.
The restaurant has 110 covers and includes a private dining room seating up to 14, which can be closed or open to the main room, and two wine-tasting rooms offering an impressive selection of wines.
Céleste will be open from 15th July for breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea and dinner
The Lanesborough, Hyde Park Corner, London SW1X 7TA
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