Christopher’s reopens in Covent Garden after major refurbishment

Long-established family-run restaurant Christopher’s, in Covent Garden, has reopened its doors following a comprehensive refurbishment. The modern American dining venue, located in a Grade II-listed townhouse on Wellington Street, unveiled its new look yesterday. The renovation was led by interior designer Lucy Potter, who aimed to refresh the venue while preserving its historic character.

Operating since 1991, Christopher’s occupies a building with a rich history, having originally opened in 1870 as London’s first licensed casino and later serving as a papier-mâché factory. The new aesthetic spans all three floors of the building: the main restaurant with its high ceilings and sweeping staircase, the ground-floor Martini Bar, and the lower-ground Club Room. There is also a private dining area with views over Waterloo Bridge and the Lyceum Theatre, called the Sunset Room.

Potter’s design incorporates materials such as velvet, marble, leather and brass to highlight the building’s architectural features. Patterns, textured wall finishes and artwork were used to give each space a distinct identity while maintaining a cohesive visual flow. “This refurbishment reflects our commitment to the future while honouring our heritage,” said Anika Paul, managing director. “As a family business, maintaining Christopher’s spirit is important to us.”

The restaurant continues to serve a menu of American-inspired dishes under the guidance of head chef Francis Agyepong, who has been with Christopher’s for 25 years. Agyepong, a former Olympic triple jumper who represented Great Britain in 1992 and 1996, oversees a menu that includes Dynamite Shrimp Tempura Tacos, Whole Grilled Lobster with Garlic Butter , a signature Wagyu Burger and the restaurant’s speciality Chocolate Brioche French Toast.

The Martini Bar remains a central feature, offering a wide selection of cocktails such as a Vesper Martini and a New-Fashioned, alongside more experimental drinks like the Nutella Martini and the Apple Pie Tini. There are also bar snacks continuing with the high-end American theme, including Tuna Tartare Tacos and Wagyu Beef Sliders with Truffle Aioli. A daily Martini Hour runs one Tuesday to Friday from 5pm to 6pm, during which martinis are priced at £10.

Christopher’s is open from Tuesday to Sunday, with brunch served until 3.30pm on Sundays.

Food Desk

To book a table at Christopher’s, 18 Wellington Street, London WC2E 7DD, call 020 7240 4222 or visit the restaurant’s website here.