Martin Brudnizki Re-designs Daphne’s, Draycott Avenue, London

Exuding the same warmth and familiarity, Daphne’s has recently undergone a re-design under the instruction of owner Richard Caring, by Martin Brudniski Design Studio. Following a fire that broke out in the kitchens earlier in the year, an opportunity arose to freshen this Italian institution, first opened 50 years ago by theatre agent Daphne Rye.

One of the chicest restaurants in London, and the original celebrity haunt of it’s day, Daphne’s sits on the cusp of the Brompton Quarter on Draycott Avenue. A popular spot for the ‘ladies who lunch’ demographic, you can just roll out of Daphne’s after a long lunch and fall into Chanel, Joseph, Guiseppe Zanotti, Bamford, Stella McCartney or Ralph Lauren.

Daphne’s appeal lies not only in its seasonal cooking, but also its natural warmth and effortless Italian charm, team this with Brudnizki’s eponymous interior style, and you have yourself one incredibly glamorous restaurant. 

MBDS house style is sophisticated, modern and efficient. Known as one of the foremost interior designers in the industry, MBDS has undertaken the design of commercial and residential projects the world over, including the new Holborn Dining Room and Scarfes Bar at the Rosewood Hotel in London, Annabel’s, Soho Beach House Miami, and Pizza East to name just a few.

Born in Sweden, Brudnizki moved to England in 1990 to study Interior Architecture and Design at The American University. After working for renowned architects and designers, he established Martin Brudnizki Design Studio (MBDS) in 2000. With Studios in both London and New York, MBDS employs a team of over 60 staff.

During the Summer months, the conservatory roof (below) and front doors open to create an al fresco feel, and in Winter, log fires in the open brick hearth create a cosy retreat. It really is quite a magical place.

I finally made it last month, and was kindly hosted by Maison Veuve Clicquot for a pre-polo debrief ahead of the Cowdray final the following day.

Above, the conservatory set up for a private dinner…

Each table receives a heavy plate of Daphne’s zucchini fritti to nibble on before ordering…

Classic dishes served include this mixed beetroot salad, caprissima & watermelon and below the chicken cotoletta.

Highlights in the design of the restaurant include these beautiful pink marble tables (the same marble used for the bar in the entrance), vintage Murano chandeliers throughout the space, and killer collection of carefully curated colourful European modern art.

….and what did I have?

Grilled Asparagus, Duck Egg & Pecorino £12.00

Lobster Spaghetti £16.00/£30.00

Chocolate Truffles £4.00

Coffee

So if you are looking for a stylish destination with atmosphere, glamorous people, beautiful artwork, incredible staff and some heavenly pasta, just head to Daphne’s. Your mother/father/boyfriend/girlfriend/boss will be most impressed.

Images ℅ of Paul Winch Furness & LWSY

Daphne’s, 112 Draycott Ave, London, SW3 3AE Tel: 020 7589 4257

LWSY