Riviera, St James's

The food

The cooking takes its cue from the French Riviera and the wider Mediterranean coast, so expect seafood, grilled dishes and sun-led flavours rather than heavy classical French. The menu has been refreshed since opening, with new Mediterranean dishes inspired by the South of France. Prices sit at the top end of London dining.

The room and terrace

After an extensive refurbishment, the former Sake no Hana space now seats around 170 inside. The 35-seat outdoor terrace is the place to be on a warm evening. Dress is smart casual, in keeping with the gentlemen's clubs and tailors along St James's Street.

Fitting it into a day

Green Park and Buckingham Palace are a few minutes' walk west, and Piccadilly Circus is just to the east, so it works well for lunch between sightseeing or dinner before a West End show. Book ahead, especially for the terrace and weekend evenings. It is the fourth restaurant from Emerald Hospitality, founded by twin brothers Arian and Alberto Zandi, and the scale of the room means it works for groups and celebrations as well as tables for two. Ask about the terrace when booking.

Highlights

• South of France and Mediterranean menu
• Around 170 covers inside plus a 35-seat terrace
• Former Sake no Hana site on St James's Street
• Walking distance of Green Park and Piccadilly

Good to know

• Booking recommended, especially for the terrace.
• Smart casual dress.
• At the expensive end of the London market.

Frequently asked questions