Tom Aikens to launch boutique destination restaurant in Belgravia
October 14, 2019
Tom Aikens is making a dramatic return to London’s fine dining scene with an intimate 25-cover restaurant in Belgravia. In a deal brokered by leisure property advisers Davis Coffer Lyons, the new restaurant, called Muse will open its doors in December 2019 at the former pizzeria at 38 Groom Place, off Belgravia Square.
Davis Coffer Lyons advised the outgoing tenant, ‘Pinocchio’s’ Carlo Tambini on the deal. The property is owned by London estate landlord Grosvenor, and comprises 974 sq ft over ground, first and second floors, with space for approximately 40 covers. The lease assignment which has seven years remaining, was completed earlier this year and a premium was paid by the new operator.
Jonathan Moradoff, Director at Davis Coffer Lyons, said, “This was a really fantastic opportunity in a wonderful area of London which will be perfect for Tom to launch his new offering. We wish him every success with the new venture. The London restaurant market remains buoyant for the right sites if priced correctly and we are seeing many great opportunities in the market at the moment.”
Muse will provide a unique and intimate dining journey, offering every guest a kitchen table experience from either the kitchen counter or table side. After many years spent searching for the perfect location, Muse looks set to be the pinnacle of Tom’s career thus far, where the food, interiors and service will come together to provide a magical and memorable atmosphere for all who dine there.
This restaurant is very close to Tom’s heart, drawing on pivotal relationships, experiences and influences which have led him to this point in his life. Tom will be drawing inspiration from poignant memories of his early childhood and professional path throughout the years, when creating the seasonal, stripped-back tasting menu. Signature dishes will spotlight one key ingredient or element per dish, allowing it to tell a story through minimal, yet expertly selected produce.
The dining space will be split over two floors of the characterful mews house, each with a fully open plan theatre kitchen giving everyone a chance to see Tom and his kitchen team orchestrate truly special moments.
On the inspiration behind the opening of Muse, Tom Aikens said: “Throughout my life, I have been inspired and influenced by many different people, places, time and travels. From my mother, Tania, who opened my eyes to the infinite pleasures and absolute delights that food can bring… to all of those who have guided and supported me throughout my journey, from my initial steps into a kitchen to where I am today. I still carry with me an inherent pride of my Norfolk provenance, alongside the many places that were considered a home-from-home in those early years. That’s why my new home, Muse, pays homage to all of these and more.”
Aikens has had a long career in kitchens, having worked at Pierre Koffmann’s La Tante Claire, with Joël Robuchon in Paris and at Pied-à-Terre and is the youngest chef to win two Michelin-stars at the age of 26. He opened his eponymous restaurant Tom Aikens in Chelsea in 2003, which won two stars before it closed in 2014. He also runs Tom’s Kitchen in Chelsea, which he opened in 2006.
