The Restaurant at The Royal Academy, created by acclaimed restaurateur and Great British Menu judge, Oliver Peyton, opened on 19 January beneath the galleries of the Royal Academy of Arts. Peyton is also the brains behind bakery Peyton and Byrne, and restaurants at the National Gallery, Kew Gardens, the Wallace Collection and Inn the Park at St James’s Park. Indeed, a trip to a gallery in London is now incomplete without a visit to one of these and Peyton is doing a fantastic job in changing the way we eat and drink in galleries. Gone are the bland filter coffee and stale pastries, and in its place, a delightful range of homemade gourmet sandwiches and freshly baked pies and cakes. I even often find myself guiltily crossing the Euston Road from my flat to their Peyton and Byrne branch in Kings Cross Station to buy one of their indulgent cupcakes, which by the way are some of the best in London.
But what also interests me about The Restaurant at The Royal Academy is the stunning interior, designed by Tom Dixon. Previously hidden items from the Royal Academy collection are showed off in purpose built glass cabinets, which are illuminated by the geometric golden gem lights. It is described by the designers as:
The dining area is divided into different zones, with each area inspired by the work of a different Royal Academy Great such as Turner and Sir John Soane. To extend the gallery experience for diners, Design Research Studio has designed a dramatic free-standing unit in the centre of the space. Consisting of a number of glass cubes, the structure will house an extraordinary selection of sculptures and busts dating back to 1897. The pieces belong to the Royal Academy of Arts permanent collection but have long been stored out of public view.
The new bar is set to be a key focal point in the restaurant made from Mount Etna lava stone and hand-made glazed brick. Designed as a robust, sculptural object, its grandeur is enhanced by a dramatic cast glass chandelier suspended above. Other interior highlights include digitally etched brass pendant lights and injection-moulded foam seating.
