Locket’s, a new all-day cafe and wine bar will open its doors today in the Smithson Plaza, St James’s, London W1.
The light and open space, housed in what was the former Economist building, is a new project for Locket Hambro, who has taken over the ground-floor and created a 60-cover café and wine bar, inspired by those found in European cities such as Paris, Amsterdam and Bordeaux.
Locket is the great-granddaughter of Olaf Hambro who, over 275 years ago, took on the running of one of St James’s most iconic restaurants, Wiltons, and whose family still run to this day. With this long history of restaurants in her family, it was only a matter of time before Locket branched out with her own venture.
By day, Locket’s will serve a menu of breakfast pastries, teas, coffees, smoothies and juices, followed by light salads and lunches such as Broccoli with beluga lentils and smoked anchovies. By night the vibrant cafe will transform into a candle-lit wine bar, the perfect evening drink spot with light, simple small plates, focusing on European flavours.
Menu highlights will include Burrata with butternut squash and pumpkin seeds, as well as Creamy polenta, mushrooms and parmesan.
A diverse wine list will celebrate both old and new world, with over 40 wines available by the glass, as well as regular hosted wine events throughout the year.
On entering the building from Smithson Plaza, floor to ceiling glass windows will shower the room in natural daylight. A cork bar will guide along the right-hand wall, with individual uplit tables overlooking the bustling streets and art galleries of Bury Street.
Curving around, larger banquettes in mint green leather will be perfect for groups of up to six. The design, by the renowned Fran Hickman Interiors, will explore an early seventies theme with copper, cork, and orange resin tables.
Come summer, Locket’s will spill over into Smithson Plaza’s courtyard with an al-fresco wine terrace and canopy.
Locket’s is open weekdays from 7.30am through to 10.30pm. No reservations required.
