The Delaunay

In the heart of Covent Garden, The Delaunay channels the grand tradition of the European café, its Art Deco poise, high ceilings and elegant furnishings setting the tone. Inspired by the café culture of Vienna, Budapest and Paris, it marries old-world glamour with a warm, unhurried welcome, the kind of room where breakfast slides into business lunch, and pre-theatre suppers gather the hum of the West End.

The kitchen leans into timeless flavours: tartelettes flambées crowned with Paris mushrooms and thyme or classic smoked bacon and shallots; briny Jersey Rock oysters and a silken roast plum tomato soup. Pristine fish shines from seared fillet of mackerel with cucumber and beurre blanc to a whole baked sea bass with tomato noisette and caper berries. As ever, schnitzels are a draw, from the iconic Wiener Schnitzel to a crisp chicken schnitzel sandwich.

There is indulgence in reserve too, from a cheese selection spotlighting Cantal Entre-deux to a Konditorei spread of pleasures: Sachertorte, Delaunay truffles, classic apple strudel with vanilla ice cream, and jewel-like ice cream coupes and sorbets. With attentive service, all-day dining and daily afternoon tea, it suits leisurely breakfasts, business rendezvous, pre-theatre pit-stops and special occasions alike.

Make a date, settle into the glow, and let a little continental charm unfold, a delectable curtain-raiser in Covent Garden.