sketch
Restaurant | London | England | United Kingdom
The "sketch" in London, England, is much more than just a restaurant - it is a culinary and artistic experience unlike any other. Located in the elegant Mayfair district, it was founded in 2002 by Algerian restaurateur Mourad Mazouz and French master chef Pierre Gagnaire, and has since become an iconic meeting place for foodies, art lovers, and design enthusiasts. The building, a listed 18th-century townhouse, has a rich history: it once served as the headquarters of the suffragette movement, later as Christian Dior's studio, and eventually as a creative playground for Mazouz's visionary ideas. Today, it houses five different dining areas, each with its own atmosphere and culinary identity, and is a place that is constantly evolving.
The atmosphere at "sketch" is unique and multi-layered. Upon entering, you are greeted by an eclectic design that blends art, music, and gastronomy. The main dining room, known as "The Gallery," was redesigned in 2022 by British-Nigerian artist Yinka Shonibare and architect India Mahdavi. The once-famous pink walls have been replaced by a warm palette of sun yellow and copper gold, complemented by hand-carved African masks and quilt-like artworks that blend African influences with modern flair. This space is a gastro-brasserie that invites you to linger, while the futuristic, egg-shaped toilets - the "Pods" - with their rainbow-colored light and sci-fi charm have become an Instagram phenomenon. Another area, "The Glade," evokes an enchanted forest with lush greenery and a mystical atmosphere, ideal for a relaxed lunch or cocktails.
Culinary-wise, "sketch" offers an impressive variety influenced by Gagnaire's creative touch. In the three Michelin-starred fine-dining restaurant "Lecture Room & Library," haute cuisine takes center stage. For example, the "Live Langoustine" - a raw langoustine refined with Japanese Sansho pepper, grapefruit, and watermelon, served between crispy potatoes - delights with its innovative combination of flavors and textures. In "The Gallery," on the other hand, the cuisine is more accessible but no less refined: the "Jollof Rice," inspired by West African traditions, is offered with spicy nuances and perfect bite, showcasing the menu's evolution towards global influences. The Afternoon Tea, a classic at "sketch," is an experience in itself: in addition to delicate finger sandwiches and airy scones with clotted cream, there are creative desserts like the "Lemon Marshmallow Petit Gateau" that pamper the palate with their lightness and elegance.
The service at "sketch" is another highlight. The staff is attentive, friendly, and professional, with the ability to precisely meet the guests' needs - whether for a quick cocktail in the "East Bar" or an extensive tasting menu in the "Lecture Room." The different areas cater to different audiences: families enjoy the playful environment of "The Parlour" with its patisserie offerings, while couples and groups prefer the intimate "Glade" or the lively "Gallery." Reservations are essential, especially for the upscale areas, as demand is high, but the "East Bar" also offers a casual alternative for spontaneous visitors with its DJ sets and cocktails.
"sketch" has reinvented itself over the years, giving it a special dynamism. Collaborations with international artists like David Shrigley, who previously shaped the "Gallery" with his quirky drawings, or the current design by Shonibare, show that art here is not just decoration but an integral part of the concept. This constant evolution keeps the restaurant fresh and relevant, even though there is occasional criticism that prices are high - a point that is often relativized considering the quality and overall experience.
In summary, "sketch" stands out for its excellent value for money when considering the extraordinary combination of art, design, and gastronomy. It is a place suitable for special occasions as well as spontaneous visits, capturing the essence of London as a creative metropolis. For anyone visiting the city, "sketch" is an absolute highlight - an experience that impresses with its versatility, beauty, and culinary expertise.
