Accessing Pall Mall often feels like entering a fortress. At 116 Pall Mall, the atmosphere is subtly different. While many nearby establishments maintain strict entry policies, this location opens its doors, inviting those who dare to step inside.
Housed within a Grade I-listed Regency building designed by John Nash, the Institute of Directors evokes grandeur through its carved marble and classical detailing. Visitors may not expect to simply stroll in for lunch, given the façade’s imposing presence. However, to enter is to discover one of the few places along this prestigious street that welcomes the public.
The Uncertain Arrival
The experience begins not quite like a typical restaurant. Upon entering, an air of uncertainty hangs in the balance: pause or proceed? Should one approach the reception desk or navigate the grand staircase that ascends before them? The high ceilings create a sense of elevation, and the grandeur of the space speaks volumes.
No one obstructs the path. Visitors are free to continue onward.
Dining Within Historic Walls
The Searcys-operated dining areas integrate seamlessly within the building, enhancing rather than detracting from its elegance. Positioned at the rear on the ground floor, 116 Pall Mall Brasserie opens onto a terrace and garden, ideal for warm months. Below lies the Champagne Bar, located in the building’s former cellars, featuring vaulted ceilings and rustic brickwork that lend a more intimate feel.
Patrons move through the space for coffee or a meal, some clearly engaged in business while others enjoy a leisurely experience. The different areas feel interconnected, creating a natural flow between meetings and meals.
Understanding the Diners
A diverse crowd frequents this venue. Members of the Institute of Directors are regulars, alongside those with meetings in the upper levels. A few familiar faces know exactly where they’re headed, while others discover the possibility of booking a table and decide to explore.
The venue attracts a variety of individuals, from theatre-goers wandering from Haymarket to shoppers navigating St James’s. Some might venture further than planned, while others simply become part of the building’s narrative once inside.
Culinary Offerings
The menu reflects a modern European style, focusing on seasonal ingredients that feel appropriate for the setting. Dishes such as English asparagus, a classic fish cake, and a Basque cheesecake for dessert offer familiar comforts. A set menu provides options for £28 for two courses or £35 for three, alongside a straightforward à la carte selection.
As Searcys operates the venue, the quality remains consistent and well-managed. It does not aim to outshine nearby fine-dining options. For members of the Luxury Restaurant Guide, a complimentary glass of Searcys sparkling wine awaits at lunchtime, enhancing the dining experience.
A Space of Its Own
The enduring impression is one of the building itself. Each room varies in character—from expansive lounges to the secluded terrace and rustic cellar bar. All spaces contribute to an integrated experience, rather than feeling isolated.
Reasons to Visit
This establishment doesn’t cater to leisurely evenings but rather serves functional purposes. It’s ideal for lunch between meetings, or a quick reprieve before delving back into the bustling streets of St James’s. In an area where most doors remain sealed, this open invitation is indeed noteworthy.
