In a city like London, where new buildings are constantly being erected, and new restaurants and bars are opening left, right, and centre, the opposite is also true. As new venues open their doors, others hold their final service and sadly close down. Such is the case, just this last week, as popular family-run Covent Garden restaurant Christopher’s shut its doors.
After more than 30 years serving the hungry crowds that fill Covent Garden, the London institution has permanently closed its restaurant on Wellington Street. They held their last service at the end of September and have now closed for business. But it’s not all bad news for fans of the eatery, as the team has plans for a new site and pop-ups in the meantime.
Christopher’s
Christopher’s originally opened back in 1991, and quickly became one of the go-to spots for American fare in London. Spread across multiple spaces, the venue spanned a Martini Bar, a first-floor restaurant, and an exclusive Club Room.
Drawing inspiration from the Modern American era, Christopher’s was a striking restaurant to even the most jaded restaurant-goer. And it was housed in an equally stunning building. The Grade II listed building was once a papier mâché factory, and in 1870 it was London’s first licensed casino.
Said Anika Paul, Managing Director of Christopher’s:
“After more than three decades in Covent Garden, the time has come for us to close this chapter of Christopher’s at Wellington Street. This restaurant has been an enormous part of our family’s life, and we are incredibly grateful to every guest who has celebrated with us, every member of the team who has helped shape Christopher’s, and all the friends of the restaurant who have supported us over the years.”
The Paul family, which has run the restaurant since 2010, is actively looking for a new permanent home for Christopher’s, with an updated concept potentially in the works. Until they find the perfect new venue, the restaurant team is available for pop-ups, private events and special collaborations.
