London is embracing a summer inspired by New York, as several notable culinary establishments from the Big Apple have made their mark in the city. After the success of a pop-up, Dante has established a permanent presence at Claridge’s. Meanwhile, the beloved West Village eatery Buvette has recently opened in Neal’s Yard. In a unique collaboration, cult classic Coqodaq is hosting its famed chicken offerings at Lucky Cat for a limited two-week period.
Interestingly, the latest addition to this trend comes from closer to home. Margot Heuer-King, the daughter of renowned London restaurateur Jeremy King, is introducing her Greenwich Village establishment, People’s, to the city for just five days. It will take place in the atmospheric cellar of her father’s newest venture, Simpson’s in the Strand.
Scheduled from July 7 to 11, aligning with the Wimbledon finals, People’s will inhabit the seductive basement cocktail lounge, Nellie’s. Guests can expect a roaming Belvedere martini trolley, along with a generous flow of Moët & Chandon.
The introduction of People’s is a refreshing development for London’s nightlife, often hindered by licensing issues and noise regulations. Heuer-King observes that London lacks “downtown elegance” compared to New York’s spontaneous and unpredictable vibe. Although London has its own character, it is a different spirit that she aims to reintroduce through this pop-up. The city has a long-standing tradition of membership clubs, prompting questions about what it feels like to engage in a more relaxed environment.
For Heuer-King, this London stint feels particularly personal. Growing up amidst her father’s restaurants such as Le Caprice and The Ivy has created a strong connection to the city. She reflects on the blend of nostalgia and surprise in her return, stating, “People’s had to happen in New York… It’s where I met Emmet and felt the urge to create something.” Her roots in London, particularly in the context of her father’s legacy, lend additional significance to this endeavor.
Emmet McDermott, co-founder of People’s, echoes this sentiment. They both feel that their early experiences in places like Duke’s and Chiltern Firehouse have shaped their vision, making this return feel almost inevitable. Hosting the pop-up in the venue that embodies Jeremy King’s vision adds an element of fate to the occasion.
Since its opening in late 2024, People’s has quickly become a favored spot for nightlife in New York City. Despite its membership model, the founders prefer to describe it as an “evening club and art salon.” While access is limited, it offers invites primarily through current members. The London iteration will follow a similar structure, extending invitations to a selective guest list, shaping it into an exclusive experience.
McDermott emphasizes the importance of creating a community that transcends monetary value, cherishing the connection to a place that has significantly influenced them. He expresses excitement about returning to London, highlighting a sense of duty to honor the roots that shaped their venture. As they consider possible expansions, Heuer-King reflects on the desire for a permanent location, but acknowledges that their immediate focus remains in New York.
