Langan’s Brasserie

After shutting its doors in November 2020 due to the pandemic, the neon signs outside Langan’s Brasserie have finally flickered back to life. The iconic restaurant and bar, initially set up by co-founders Peter Langan and Michael Caine in the 70s, was once a paparazzi-lined haunt frequented by celebrities and royalty. Now, after a total refurbishment, everyone’s dying to know if Langan’s still lays claim to the old-school glamour and notoriety that gave it its legendary status. 

Everything about Langan’s feels a little bit retro, from a playlist of groovy 80s tracks to its 20th-century décor and old French-style menu. Even the staff play a part in the throwback, as we were shown to our table by a waiter dressed in a white suit - a homage to Langan himself. The truth is, the restaurant’s sense of charm, fun and fabulousness are as intact as ever. 

From the menu, many of its signature dishes are designed to be shared and served (if mostly to add a touch of theatre) at the table. ‘Langan’s fish pie for 2’ was a luxurious example of everything a fish pie should be – not stingy on the fruits de mer, topped with a butter-enriched layer of piped mashed potato, then baked until a thick, golden crust forms. We ordered the apple tarte tatin (again, for two) on recommendation by our waitress, who sliced the sticky, copper-coloured tart in half in front of us (lest us diners should lift a finger). Flaky, puff pastry indented with plump, caramel-covered apple slices and topped with boozy cream – we polished off the lot.  

Our wine pairing was, again, expertly recommended by staff, and we’d suggest starting with a flute of champagne for the ultimate Langan’s experience (careful, though, the Dom Perignon is £68 by the glass). Prices vary dramatically depending on what you order, but you’re looking at up to 20 quid for a starter and £30-40 for a main. We are in the heart of Mayfair though. C’est la vie.  

Legendary Langan’s Brasserie had its heyday back in 70s and 80s, when it was run by eccentric restauranteur Peter Langan and actor Sir Michael Caine. It was one of London’s most in-demand diners, attracting a glittering clientele of the rich and famous with big names like Mick Jagger and David Bowie regular gracing its table as guests. Following Langan’s untimely death this illustrious spot lost its shine, and eventually became tired, finally closing its doors when the pandemic hit.

Now though, there has been a bright reincarnation, with restauranteurs Graziano Arricale and James Hitchen at the helm. The duo are hoping to restore Langan’s Brasserie to its former glory by way of its intense refurbishment. The results – they say – make it fit for a new generation of good-time restaurant go-ers.

The interiors set the tone from the off, with guests greeted by a floor to ceiling wall of bottles in the bar area and the sound of tinkling live piano drifting through the space. The design has been spearheaded by luxury interior designer Peter Mikic, Fettle Design Studio and visionary graphic designer Annie Atkins. Atkins’ experience working with the likes of Wes Anderson has undoubtedly influenced things here. With colourful, clashing prints and retro styling, an ambiance of the roaring twenties has been carefully curated.

Areas include the main dining room and The Raw Bar as well as Langan’s Club lounge, a space reserved for members who are treated to a series of regular events.

In the dining room the main menu focuses on brasserie classics reinvented. Dishes like beef tartare have been given a theatrical spin via tableside preparation, while the brand’s famous fish pie has been given a makeover to include luxurious ingredients combined in a rich, creamy sauce. The Raw Bar presents glamorous displays of oysters, caviar and dressed crabs as well as whole lobsters and seasonal shellfish and offers the ultimate photo opportunity.