Earlier this week, we went along to the launch of the new Beck at Brown’s in Mayfair, part of a very Italian takeover at London’s first hotel. The evening started with a classic Martini and a Manhattan in the newly revamped Donovan Bar, which launches in collaboration with Salvatore Calabrese this Thursday.

Brown’s is one of our favourite hotels. The warmth of the hotel, and the oh-so-friendly staff have kept us coming back over the years. Whilst we were sad to learn of the departure of Hix Mayfair, we were looking forward to the new Italian makeover.
We chose well, enjoying the delicate dishes delivered over the evening – our dining experience didn’t make for one of the speediest.

In short, a welcome addition to the neo-dining scene of hot-right-now Albemarle Street. Perfect for long lunches.

Starters we enjoyed included…

Pan-fried veal sweetbreads with fava beans, peas and artichokes

Octopus Salad with Italian Vine Tomatoes and Celery

Followed by a new take on traditional pasta dishes…

Spaghetti Cacio E Pepe with Lime-marinated scampi

Fagotelli alla Carbonara

Plus, a rather unusual but enjoyable…

Red Mullet Sandwich with black olive and tomato