INTERIORS: Bruno Moinard Designs The Grill at The Dorchester Hotel, London

Late last year, The Grill at The Dorchester Hotel was reopened following a discreet yet extensive refurbishment. Bruno Moinard did what he does best. A thick gloss of gilt and glamour has been applied to this iconic but previously tired Grill Room. The most notable addition is the vast hand-blown Murano glass chandelier and magical pivoting wall panels which automatically swivel as the restaurant moves from day to night.

‘Whilst we wanted to breathe new life into the room, we also wanted to respect the original features and preserve what has been a fantastic meeting place of celebrated personalities since the 1930s,’ Bruno said. ‘The original ceiling and ornate doors remain an integral part of the current design; discerning diners will notice that the new wall panels echo parts of the ceiling in order to bring past and present together’.

First established in 1931, The Grill at The Dorchester quickly gained a reputation as the place to be for the finest grill food in London. In keeping with this original concept, Alain Ducasse’s protégé Christophe Marleix has created new seasonal menus. The restaurant features the striking hand-blown Murano glass chandelier that dominates the room, and contrasting natural materials including zinc, copper and marble, set against butterscotch leather and oak parquet flooring. 

The renovation is part of Dorchester Collection’s ongoing commitment to enhance a world class icon and the hotel’s position in the London market as a top dining destination. Interior architect Bruno Moinard has worked in collaborative effort with The Dorchester on his vision for the space. The original ceiling and ornate doors remain an integral part of the current design, paying homage to the heritage of the restaurant.

I was invited for dinner recently, and arrived to a lively room, the soundtrack offered a very contemporary space with a small party in the corner adding ambience to the restaurant, not that dreaded you can’t hear yourself think kind of worry. With plenty of pre-theatre diners finishing up I was surprised to see such a varied demographic considering the prices on the menu. However, what a magical place. I feasted on a menu of scallops (below), salmon and their iconic Sicilian pistachio and salted caramel soufflé. We may have been offered a few other dishes to try, (you must try the macaroni cheese if you go). Think of the Grill Room as a glossier and slower paced version of the Wolseley.

The Dorchester Hotel, Park Lane, Mayfair, London.

LWSY

With thanks to the Dorchester Collection.