Le Gavroche celebrates 50th birthday with Little Bird Gin at Maltby Street Market

Celebrating 50 years of illustrious Mayfair dining establishment Le Gavroche, legendary British chef Michel Roux Jr took residence in the archways of Maltby Street Market this weekend, in a one-off collaboration with Laura Sullivan’s boutique drink brand Little Bird Gin.

A fitting setting for the team of Le Gavroche, surrounded by the smoky wafts of grilled cheese sandwiches and neighbouring vendors flogging the fresh market delights that Ropewalk has to offer, this unique partnership was a treat for the senses for passing visitors looking for a little something extra on a Saturday afternoon.

Injecting lavender notes to the gin’s original makeup, the limited-edition bottle has been re-invented, seamlessly merging the classy and uniquely diverse nature of the two offerings. Designed by the Little Bird team, as well as the head sommelier of Le Gavroche, Rémi Cousin, specially crafted cocktails were handed out to showcase the floral notes and refreshing flavours the drink has to offer. Each concoction was delightfully light and dangerously delicious, proving easily drinkable on a summer afternoon.

Handing out Le Gavroche canapés with his daughter and fellow chef, Emily Roux, Michel Roux Jr ensured guests sampled corn fritters and cream cheese bites, to perfectly compliment the light flavours of the new drink. The whole feel of the Maltby Street affair felt uniquely vintage and fun loving in its approach, testament to the bustling crowds spilling out of the bar and onto the streets below. Wooden tables, up-cycled furniture, dim lighting and retro high-ball glassware gave an old-time look, blending seamlessly with the new brand face of Little Bird Gin.

Adding a flirty and creative spin to the original Little Bird bottles, the limited edition drink was also adorned with a very French looking ‘Mademoiselle Ginger’ (rather than the original Miss Ginger, the face of the brand), who was also strung up on a flag above the bar, keeping a watchful eye on her guests below.

Anna Dack
Photos: Anna Dack (except number four by Emily Roux)

The Little Bird Gin bar, Maltby Street Market Arch 48 Ropewalk London SE1 3PA, is open on Thursday and Friday from 5pm until 10pm, Saturday from 10am until 10pm, Sunday from 11am until 4pm. Le Gavroche, 43 Upper Brook St London W1K 7QR, continues its 50^th birthday celebrations daily. To book a table call 020 7408 0881 or visit their website here.