A gentleman who ventures out in Mayfair needs a base, a reliable watering hole where he can recharge is batteries and the delightful Cecconi’s on Burlington Gardens has fulfilled that role since 1978 when Enzo Cecconi who had been the youngest General Manager at Venice’s famous Cipriani restaurant, came to our shores with the aim of establishing the finest Italian restaurant in London.
In recent years the dining room has been fully renovated and it is the most splendid room to eat whether with a loved one or a business contact.
It’s a place to see and be seen and while you can often breeze in and sit down for breakfast if you are early on a weekday or on Saturday, it best to book. After about 8.00am it fills with London’s beautiful people and you won’t get in without a booking.
It’s perfect any time of the day but I love Cecconi’s for breakfast. Real leaf tea served by Italian waiters resplendent in starched white aprons and a really fantastic Eggs Benedict make it one of my favourite places to eat breakfast in London.
If, like me, you like a cigar, there are tables outside so you can enjoy a Cuban after your breakfast as you watch the world go by. There are heaters which make it a great spot any time of the year.
Later in the day there is a full menu of wonderful and beautifully crafted Italian staples but I prefer to sit at one of the green leather bar stools for a reviving glass of prosecco and a selection of Cichetti, which is Italian for Tapas. The surroundings and the whole atmosphere of the place will bring out the Perfect Gentleman in you any time of day.
Cecconi’s
5a Burlington Gardens, Mayfair, London W1S 3EP
http://www.cecconis.co.uk/
