Criterion Restaurant

 

What makes the Criterion special is its truly spectacular neo-Byzantine interior which has been wowing diners ever since its doors swung open in 1873. Positioned in the heart of the Piccadilly Circus, this well known establishment occupies a significant spot and makes no apology for its showy gilt ceilings, enormous mirrors, opulent rugs and intricate mosaics. The decor of is unapologetically rooted
in a bygone era - Winston Churchill, David Lloyd George and HG Wells
are just some of the well known visitors who've dined here. Replacing former owner Marco Pierre White's French menu with a Modern European one, Georgian property developer Vasily Sopromadze and his 21 year old son Irakli reopened the Criterion in the summer of 2009. With Matthew Foxon as head chef his gastropub grounding at The Rosendale is evident in signature dishes like Gloucester Old Spot Pork cooked three ways, Ostrich fillet and a selection of seafood - delivered daily from Looe in Cornwall. To enjoy a dining room like this - surely one of London's most magnificent - the old fashioned way opt for an afternoon tea of smoked salmon and cucumber sandwiches, scones and clotted cream. Alternatively, head to the Long Bar and follow in the footsteps of Sherlock Holmes. Elementary, my dear.