With the opening of the new Ralph’s Coffee & Bar, London has seen a rising trend for luxury in-store food and drink hang-outs, with established fashion brands looking to enhance the experience of their ultra-wealthy regulars. We’ve picked our Top 3 in store cafe’s below…
Ralph’s Coffee & Bar
173 Regent St, Mayfair
Adjacent to the new Polo Ralph Lauren European flagship store, the discreet entrance to Ralph’s Coffee & Bar allows you to leave behind the hustle and bustle of Regent Street. You enter a world where the only question you need to ask yourself is: ‘coffee or cocktail?’ (Delicious coffee from La Colombe aside, the answer should always be cocktail… they make a mean Old Fashioned!) Inspired by Ralph Lauren’s current hospitality portfolio in New York and Paris, his iconic design can clearly be seen through the soft saddle leather banquettes, beautiful brass-topped bar, and equestrian touches throughout, an homage to the brand’s history. An intimate and warm oasis, the club-like atmosphere is enhanced by the green billiard clad walls, and traditional bar snack menu; light fare rooted in American style and spirit, featuring classic options such as the Club Sandwich, and a trio of desserts to die for. A destination in Mayfair, it already has a loyal following, with guests returning again and again to enjoy the calm and traditional sophistication of this new favourite.
Thomas’ at Burberry
5 Vigo St, Mayfair
Celebrating their 160th anniversary last year, Burberry is the epitome of a quintessentially British fashion house, famous for their innovative trench coat and star-studded advertising campaigns, including the recent short film featuring Domhnall Gleeson and Lily James. Thomas’ reflects the brand’s heritage, serving an all-day menu with home-grown produce from small farmers and artisan suppliers across the UK, and featuring everything from classic Shepherd’s Pie to Lobster with Chips. There’s even a section titled, ‘From the Aga’ offering discerning shoppers scones, crumpets, and toasted teacakes… It doesn’t get much more British than that, and we love it!
Chucs
30 Dover St, Mayfair
Nestled in the heart of their Dover Street store, Chucs Restaurant & Café has become increasingly popular to those both initiated and new to the luxury Italian brand. An intimate, cosy venue, reminiscent of the type of luxury yacht where one might wear their Chucs swimwear, it offers guests much loved Italian classics, such as Homemade Tagliolini Pasta from Executive Chef Alessandro Verdenelli. Beware the moreish and indulgent Tiramisu, which may have you reaching for a size up after a few visits… Italian style reigns with a marble topped bar, polished dark wood, and deep blue leather stalls the colour of the Amalfi coast.
