ANNETTE ENJOYS A SPARKLING TRIP TO THE RIVIERA...AT 23 ST JAMES STREET, LONDON
January 2026
Riviera Reception | Image credit: Jack Hardy
There is no mistaking the essence of eating out when visiting the Cote D’Azur. The go-to hotspot for restaurants which became popular in the 50’s, with film stars such as Grace Kelly and Sophia Loren oozing old-school glamour on the terraces, there is no mistaking that their food and service is still elite.
The French Riviera, stretching from Saint-Tropez to Menton, has long been a playground for culinary excellence, with classic Provençal cuisine, rustic style and a dash of opulence. While we may not be able to grab a flight and indulge in light-filled apéritifs at a Cannes eatery, we most definitely can get our own glimpse of the South of France here in London.
In the heart of Mayfair, Riviera Restaurant seeks to capture that same sun-dappled elegance all year round, even in the depths of winter. Aptly named after the sparkling South of France, their Mayfair abode set in the heart of the hustle and bustle of St James Street, first welcomed diners in 2023.
Riviera by Day | Image credit: Jack Hardy
Since opening, Riviera has been noted for putting a fresh spin on Mediterranean classics, drawing inspiration from the seaside charm that gives that Monaco glow. I had the pleasure of visiting the quaint corner restaurant, which is situated on a large mezzanine, giving the elevated space a grandeur look and feel.
The interior itself feels like a nod to mid-century French glamour, with soft lighting, plush seating and an atmosphere of comfort. With spacious tables, we were seated by the bar with its low lights and candles and floor to ceiling bay windows overlooking the busy streets below. The setting had a feel of part elegant brasserie, part wraparound terrace, perfect for watching the world go by with a glass of something chilled!
With more than a hint of glamour, my guest and I were greeted with a glass of champagne and a menu which we were informed was perfect for sharing. While they do the traditional starter and mains choices, we decided to leave it in their capable hands and shared a platter of what they decided on. The presentation did not disappoint! The dishes arrived close together, reminding us of long French lunches where each course is devoured over good conversation.
Riviera Whole Native Lobster Pasta £135 | Image credit: Riviera
Our mains arrived as a Beef Fillet Café de Paris butter, trofie pesto, baby gem salad and potatoes. In layman’s terms, the perfect mix of meat, pasta and salad! The Café de Paris butter was a popular dish originating from the 1930’s, and we enjoyed the mix of classic and modern dishes available that neatly complimented each other. Served in copper pans, and elegant white chinaware, it was a mix of rustic combined with luxury, which gave it that non-stuffy cosy feel.
The portions were hearty so that sharing as a meal for two was perfect, the gem salad and fillet of beef were particularly sizable, which we adequately polished off (even if we were pretty full!) It’s the sort of portion that feels generous to share without tipping into heaviness overload.
Perusing the menu, I would have gone for most items, as it all looked delicious! They have something to cater for all palates including octopus, seabass, ragu rigatoni, lobster, fois gras, tuna and beef carpaccio. For non-meat eaters, there is also a selection of pastas and vegetable accompaniments.
Riviera by Day | Image credit: Jack Hardy
The menu is a positive nod towards traditional French, Italian and Mediterranean influences all combined with fresh ingredients and light sauces. The seafood offerings, such as the seabass and octopus, are particularly in keeping with coastal inspirations and remind you of seaside trattorie in Antibes and Menton.
The restaurant was buzzing with what seemed like couples, corporate do’s and friends out enjoying a night. It felt like a a place that people choose to make an evening of rather than a quick bite.
It was chef’s orders for us to try a dessert, and who were we to refuse? We were greeted with the grand finale of Riviera Tarte Tatin. As we had relaxed, chatted and washed our divine meal down with a couple of warm-bodied glasses of La Cabriole, we felt we were ready to tuck into the last sweet treat of the night.
Riviera by Night | Image credit: Jack Hardy
The Tarte Tatin, a classic upside-down caramelised apple tart created in the 1880s in France, was everything we hoped for; sticky, buttery, warmly spiced and served with a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream. Being a fan of tarte tatin, and trying it all over France, I was delighted that it tasted like the real deal, and my guest and I devoured it within a couple of minutes.
Conversation flowed, wine was poured and the setting made you forget for a moment that you were steps away from the City of London’s boardrooms rather than the sunny promenades of the Riviera.
Was I in the South of France? Not completely.
But did I feel like a vintage glamour puss for the night? Absolutely.
Valentine’s Day at Riviera
Escape to Riviera this Valentine’s Day, where the charm of the South of France meets an evening of elegance and connection. Enjoy exquisite Mediterranean flavours, delightful conversation, and special moments with your loved one, all set within our beautifully adorned surroundings.
A carefully planned surprise awaits to make the night even more memorable…
Riviera, 23 St James St, London SW1A 1HA
Book: 020 8050 6932
