This September, D and D London dining spaces within the historic Royal Exchange building by Bank, are to undergo a refurbishment to create a new look for what has become a major City hub for local business professionals, tourists and gourmet enthusiasts. On the mezzanines, the new Threadneedle Bar and an all-day dining Gallery will be unveiled, alongside Restaurant Sauterelle. All three will overlook the existing Grand Café and boutiques on the ground floor. Interior Design agency Russell Sage Studio will develop and unify the individual spaces by pairing rich shades of blue, cognac and other dark hues as well as introducing a new lighting scheme throughout. The building’s architectural Greek key and overlapping monogram details will be referenced in the upholstery and detailing around the venue, while new furniture will add comfort and character to the venue. Leading London florist McQueens will work closely with Russell Sage Studio to bring warmth and intimacy to the space.
At Sauterelle, Executive chef Stefano Leone and head chef Piero Leone [no relation] will serve a modern menu drawing inspiration from the repertoire and flavours of Provence and Liguria. The chefs will source the ingredients from the Mediterranean region and Britain, with a focus on sustainable produce. Sauterelle menu will include dishes such as Native Oyster Carpaccio and Buffalo mozzarella served with Oscietra caviar and balsamic pearls. New entries include Marinated Loch Var salmon, sea leaves and fish broth and Tortelli di Zucca Gialla,while meat-loving palates can opt for Rhug Estate organic Aberdeen Angus beef fillet with roasted shallots, blue creamed potatoes and Barolo jus, as well as Gloucester old spot pork, pancetta, espelette chilli and pequillo pepper.
For after dinner cocktails or drinks away from the hustle and bustle of the City, the Threadneedle Bar will boast a menu featuring sharing plates and a regularly changing cocktail list. The Grand Café and Gallery will serve an all-day menu of European Classics.
D&D London Chairman and CEO, Des Gunewardena comments: “The renovation of Grand Café and Sauterelle at The Royal Exchange is being directed by Russell Sage Studio with whom we have collaborated very successfully in the last year on the remodelling of Quaglino’s and Avenue. Russell Sage Studio will create a more comfortable and sophisticated look for this bustling café, restaurant and bar venue. The food will continue to be overseen by our very talented executive chef Stefano Leone with Piero Leone directing the cooking at Sauterelle. The Leones – though not brothers and also not related to Sergio! – have some serious pedigree. They have between them cooked at some serious restaurants all over the world – Italy, Denmark, Hong Kong, Australia, Mexico and Singapore. We are confident that Russell Sage Studio’s new look and the Leones’ cooking will keep the Royal Exchange firmly at the centre of the City’s eating out scene.”
