Is Mayfair cool again?

"Mayfair has long been one of London's more 'red flag' neighbourhoods. Just one street over from friendly fun Soho, but spiritually a million miles away, Mayfair is where oligarchs rub cashmere shoulders, private galleries shift questionable art, and people deal in literal diamonds. London is already one of the most expensive cities in the world, but Mayfair? Mayfair can bankrupt you in ."

"It began with New York Italian-inspired disco bistro The Dover, and its sassy little sibling, Dover Street Counter, followed late last year. At both, the food isn't as madly-priced as you'd think, and the vibes are exceptional. Automat on Mount Street has followed suit, pushing the same martinis-and-fries aesthetic and DakaDaka has impressed with its booming take on Georgian cuisine. New York import Carbone has also joined the party, and even Claridge's has got in on the action, with historic West Village cafe Dante in permanent residence at the luxury hotel's main bar and restaurant, and hipster baker Richard Hart in charge of the offering at the newly launched Claridge."

"Of course, the uber-wealthy are still being catered for at new openings such as Carbone and Bonheur, as well as Ralph Lauren's flashy Polo Bar import, which is set to launch in the space that was once Vogue House."

Mayfair has long been associated with extreme wealth, private galleries, and high-end luxury. Despite expensive surroundings, newer restaurants in the area are drawing regular Londoners back to the Georgian lanes between Piccadilly and Oxford Street. The Dover introduced a New York Italian-inspired disco bistro concept, followed by Dover Street Counter. Automat on Mount Street and DakaDaka add martinis-and-fries and a booming take on Georgian cuisine. Carbone has joined, and Claridge’s has added Dante in its main bar and restaurant, plus a Claridge’s location led by Richard Hart. While luxury venues still serve the ultra-wealthy, the overall dining vibe is becoming more accessible and appealing.

Read at Time Out London