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Dante has opened a permanent restaurant and bar at Claridge’s following a successful residency at the luxury Mayfair hotel.
The new venue, Dante Mayfair, is operated by husband-and-wife restaurateurs Linden Pride and Nathalie Hudson and marks the New York institution’s first permanent home in London. Founded more than 100 years ago as an Italian café in Greenwich Village, Dante has become known for its cocktail programme and New York-inspired hospitality.
The menu combines American classics and Italian influences, featuring dishes including Shrimp Cocktail, Iceberg Wedge Salad, New York Kale Caesar, Dante’s Smash Burger and Chicken alla Diavola. Larger dishes include Lobster Linguine and Rib Eye on the bone, while desserts include tiramisu, soft serve with s’mores and sticky toffee donut with whisky flambé.
Cocktails remain central to the concept. Dante has previously received recognition in both the World’s 50 Best Bars and Tales of the Cocktail Spirited Awards. Signature serves include The Garibaldi, Dante Negroni, Fluffy Margarita Royale, Dante Martini and Caviar Martini. A daily Martini Hour will run from 3pm to 5pm.
Commenting on the opening, Linden Pride said: “We are so proud to call Claridge’s, and London, our new home. At Dante Mayfair, we have amped up the volume on our New York roots across design, menu, and music, aiming to bring an impish sense of fun to Davies Street. That sense of a neighbourhood that Dante created for decades in New York? Mayfair’s about to feel it!”
The venue will also place a strong emphasis on music, with live piano performances and singers each afternoon, followed by blues and rock music in the evenings.
Discussing the role of aperitivo culture within the concept, Pride added: “It’s that time of day that photographers call the magic hour, when the sun begins to set, the sky is streaked with pink and gold and friends gather over a drink …a garibaldi …a Bellini …a spritz …the world slows down and takes a break. We want to welcome regulars at this time of day and become part of the rhythm of Mayfair daily life!”
Claridge’s Managing Director Thomas Kochs said: “We have loved seeing the energy the team at Dante have brought to Claridge’s, and bringing the magic of Manhattan to Mayfair has truly resonated with Londoners. The goal is to make this restaurant the living room of Mayfair, a relaxed spot with great food, wonderful people and, of course, a buzzing atmosphere thanks to Dante’s signature Martini hour, and soulful live music.”
Designed by Nathalie Hudson in collaboration with Bryan O’Sullivan Studio, the restaurant features a new colour palette, botanical murals by Beth Rodway, photography by David Yarrow and an extended bar area centred around a piano. The venue also includes a terrace for outdoor dining and a private dining room accommodating up to 14 guests.
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