People always ask the question “Where is your favourite restaurant?”. Of course, the real answer is heavily nuanced but the answer that always leaps into my head first is Riviera. The moment I stepped off the escalator on my first visit, I gasped. And it’s this level of impact and feeling that I am looking for from a restaurant visit.
I want to feel special for being there, I want my eyes to widen with delight, I want to people watch with interest, and I want to groan with delight over the food. Riviera delivers on everything.
The statement bar set against the double heighted windows, provides a visual centrepiece while the aquamarine and pink colour palette frames it beautifully. Original artworks from the Côte d’Azur adorn the walls, and the unique geometric parquet flooring adds a touch of unique elegance.
The genius of the vast windows on the second floor is that you get a front row seat to the ornate Mayfair architecture which is often lost unless you look up. This creates a sense of being in London whilst also on a mini-break to the south of France. Designed by Lazaro Rosa-Violan, the space is a triumph of complimentary fabrics, art and lighting.
To Start
The food at Riviera is a testament to the restaurant’s dedication to decadence. Their butter bill must be insane. During my previous visits, I had the pleasure of savouring a deep-fried caviar sandwich—a memorable mouthful that left a lasting luxurious impression. This time, we were treated to a sea bass carpaccio with truffle ponzu. The dish danced on the taste buds and the fish was so tender it just melted in my mouth.
The Revolutionary Josper Caesar Salad
Whoever decided to take a blowtorch to a massive hunk of lettuce deserves both applause and a pay rise. This inventive twist on the classic Caesar salad involves flame-grilling the lettuce, then stuffing the centre with a generous, thick Caesar mayonnaise, liberally dressing it in Parmesan, and adding big garlic croutons and succulent chicken. The result was a harmonious blend of smoky, creamy, and crunchy textures that elevated my favourite salad to new heights. We were in food heaven, finishing every single bite while discussing it continuously. This would work well as vegetarian main, minus the chicken as it tastes of BBQ. One word, incredible.
Main Course Triumphs
The main course continued the culinary excellence. A beautifully rested fillet steak was served with a classic Café de Paris butter. Accompanying the steak was a pesto pasta, that on paper, might seem simple, but in reality, was another must-order dish. The intensity and generosity of the pesto on fresh, perfectly cooked fresh pasta was so good that I asked to take the leftovers home. Previously, I had enjoyed the truffle gnocchi, which was equally impressive. Even the baby gem side salad was executed to perfection, offering the ideal level of crisp freshness to balance the richness of the main dishes.
Exclusivity at its Finest
Riviera offers more than just exceptional food; it provides a level of romantic escapism that is hard to find in the heart of London. Whether you’re looking to impress a date or enjoy a boujie lunch with friends, this restaurant is the perfect setting. Operated by the Emerald Hospitality Group, Riviera opened its doors in April 2023, bringing a taste of the South of France to Mayfair. Despite its elegance and allure, it remains surprisingly under the radar, which only adds to the feeling of exclusivity. I am happy to say that when asked where is my favourite restaurant in London I will still say Riveria.
Review and Images by Emmie Blower @emmiebhungry
