This magnificent pub, between tradition and modernity, is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful in London

Author: Clark Tos

2022-10-23 14:01:02

Good pubs abound London . But even if they are often typical, many are in their original state and could use a refurbishment. On the corner of Mount Street in Mayfair, the bicentenary pub The Audley is the latest example of the potential that can be discovered with a serious renovation.

Credit: Sophie Knight

The establishment is proof, if it were needed, that with a lick of paint, a change of menu and some of the world's most sought-after works of art from Hauser & Wirth Gallery, it is possible to transform a simple bar, however charming, into a real place that every customer will certainly remember for a long time.

The main ground floor space will remain, functionally, what it has always been: a classic London pub, but with a modern artistic twist. Dark wood interiors, a solid mahogany bar, brown leather cabins and traditional patterned carpeting allude to the building's history, while restored features are scattered throughout the room, from the 19th century carving knife used when the pub opened, framed on the wall, to the original fireplace, to the 19th-century ceiling clock, which a team of six French polishers took eight weeks to revive.

Naturally, many works of art are scattered throughout the space, allowing the public to escape. The kaleidoscopic ceiling, an artistic creation of Dame Phyllida Barlow, immediately contrasts with the traditional aesthetic and brings an unexpected contemporary look. Above the bar floats a neon sign that reads 'FRIENDS.' It was created by Martin Creed, winner of the Turner Prize (an annual award given to a contemporary artist under the age of 50), while on the back wall of the room hangs a work by artist Mark Campbell.

Credit: Sophie Knight

A typical kitchen

The kitchen for the entire building is supervised by British chef Jamie Shears, a particularly renowned expert in his field, who has previously worked with Gordon Ramsay and Jason Atherton. At pub downstairs, classic English cuisine takes center stage with daily specials, which range from Scotch eggs with perfectly soft centers and crispy crusts to roast beef sandwiches with pots of dipping sauce. For drinks, order classics from the bottles on display, or ask for one of four local hand-pulled beers.

On the first floor, Mount St. Restaurant offers a quieter sit-down dining option. Dishes will be more sophisticated and include British classics such as lobster pie and fancy turtle croquettes. Even more art will be on display here, including A Plate of Prawns (1958) by Freud and Smelts (1920) by Henri Matisse, as well as an installation by American artist Rashid Johnson that will span the floor. The three floors above Mount St. Restaurant will be occupied by individual private spaces, each with a different design.

Do you live in London and want to go there? Know that the establishment, located in the chic and central district of Mayfair, a few steps from Hyde Park, is now open!

Credit: Sophie Knight