Kettner’s has lived, surviving four kings and a queen, the blitz, several booms and more than a few busts, Kettner’s has seen it all and is an integral part of the vibrant, glamorous and debauched Soho we know and love today.
Originally a series of four Georgian town houses, Kettner’s was originally opened as a restaurant in 1867 by Auguste Kettner, (chef to Napoleon III,) and became infamous as the rendezvous of choice for deliciously colourful characters of the time, renowned for hosting incredibly risqué parties. Oscar Wilde dined here and Kettner’s is mentioned as his venue of choice in his trial notes. Agatha Christie and Bing Crosby were also celebrated regulars.
King Edward VII courted his mistress, Lillie Langtry and even ordered a secret tunnel to be built between Kettner’s and the Palace Theatre, where his mistress Lillie Langtry performed. The rumour is that the lovers would take the tunnel to meet at Kettner’s during intermissions. I tried to find the secret tunnel to see if I could sneak in to The Commitments but apparently its been sealed up (typical)!
Gorgeously glamorous, The Grade II listed building boasts a Brasserie, Champagne Bar and eight Private Dining Rooms, all available for hire; Kettner’s continues the tradition of incredible (if not always so risqué) parties.
Kettners kindly invited myself and a few other bloggers (headed up by Rebecca Felgate from OfficialTheatre.com)to try out their pre-theatre dining menu. I indulged in the Grilled Pork Chop with sage mash, red cabbage and onion jus and the Lemon Posset with Raspberry Tuile. It was lovely! I’ve never seen a pork chop with so much meat on it which was great! It’s lucky that I didn’t have a show to go to after because it was so nice I stayed for hours!
Pre-theatre and Post theatre dining
2 courses £21.50
3 courses £24.40
All prices are inclusive of VAT. A discretionary 12.5% service charge will be added to the bill.
Monday to Saturday 5.00 – 6.30 pm and 10 pm to close.
The Champagne Bar
Happy hour – Sunday to Thursday 4 pm to 6.30 pm
(Selected cocktails)
For more information on Kettners visit www.kettners.com
Kettner’s is situated in the heart of bohemian Soho and Theatreland on the corner of Greek Street and Romilly Street.
Kettner’s
29 Romilly Street, Soho
London W1D 5HP
The nearest tube stations are:
Leicester Square (4 minutes walk)
Piccadilly Circus (5 minutes walk)
and Covent Garden (6 minutes walk).
Reservations
Telephone 020 7734 6112
E Mail reservations@kettners.com