Hawksmoor St Pancras: Steaks in a Grand Victorian Setting
Hawksmoor, the renowned steak chain, is set to open its eighth London establishment, Hawksmoor St Pancras, in late November. This highly anticipated opening will see the restaurant take over the magnificent dining rooms and adjoining cocktail bar within George Gilbert Scott’s historic Midland Grand Hotel, now part of the St Pancras Renaissance Hotel. The space, previously occupied by Victor Garvey at the Midland Grand and before that, the Midland Grand Dining Room, is described as breathtaking, featuring soaring coffered ceilings, sweeping leather banquettes, and striking pink marble pilasters.
The move is particularly significant for Hawksmoor’s co-founders, Will Beckett and Huw Gott, who have long considered this iconic Victorian building a “dream Hawksmoor” location. As the chain approaches its 20th anniversary, Beckett expressed that this opening allows them to bring their extensive experience “back to one of the most dramatic and gorgeous buildings in our hometown.” The adjoining cocktail bar, formerly the Gothic Bar, will be rebranded as simply The Martini Bar, offering another splendid neo-gothic space with impressive ceilings, adding to the area’s upscale pre-travel drinking options alongside venues like The Booking Hall.
While the location boasts immense grandeur and historical appeal, it also presents a potential challenge, as the previous occupant, Victor Garvey, only lasted six months before closing in July. However, Hawksmoor’s established reputation and unique offering are expected to draw a strong clientele, whether they are Eurostar passengers heading to the continent or travelers on East Midlands services. This expansion marks a notable moment for the London dining scene, coinciding with other grand Victorian restaurant relaunches like Simpsons in the Strand. Hawksmoor St Pancras aims to blend its acclaimed culinary experience with the opulent heritage of its new home.
(Source: https://londonist.com/london/food-and-drink/hawksmoor-st-pancras)
