There’s no horseplay at the Brasserie of Light, despite the statue.
Selfridges aren’t exactly renowned for a restrained, subtle style, which means you really shouldn’t be surprised by this latest opening. The Brasserie of Light is a striking new eatery, an Art-Deco inspired spot filled with blue upholstery and silver trim. Oh, and the small matter of an absurdly massive winged horse, bedecked in crystals.
Why does the Brasserie of Light need a giant statue of Pegasus? Why the hell not! They’ve clearly had a tidy pile of cash to throw at this place, because the statue was created by Damien Hirst. A whopping 24ft high, with a 30ft wingspan, the winged beast appears to leap out of the wall, benevolently/menacingly soaring over diners (depending on your opinion). The eye-popping guardian of the restaurant is encrusted in crystals, in an obvious nod to the “if you’ve got it, flaunt it” ethos.
If you can tear your eyes away from the mighty Pegasus, the Brasserie of Light also boasts a suave central bar, and a private dining room. Artfully decorated, either space makes for a suitably swish stop during your Selfridges adventure. Best of all, you won’t have to rush off when the store shuts down for the night – the Brasserie will have independent opening hours that continue long after the last shoppers have left.
The menu is a mix of classic British dishes and more international fare. Gracing the a la carte menu are dishes like avocado and sesame fried chicken with coriander, green tea and chia seed, jalapeño dip, and a spaghettini and lobster main. The dessert menu even features a nod to the restaurant’s centrepiece; the Pegasus Pie is a combination of a yuzu coconut cloud, sesame biscuit, charred pineapple, and caramel.
The Brasserie of Light will also offer a brunch menu, a daily afternoon tea menu, and even a champagne afternoon tea for fancier occasions. You know, if the crystal horse didn’t make it fancy enough already…
Location: Selfridges, Duke Street Entrance, 400 Oxford Street, W1A 1AB. Nearest station is Bond Street. See it on Google Maps.
Opening hours: 8am-midnight (Mon to Fri), 9am-midnight (Sat), 9am-11pm (Sun).
Price: starters begin at £7.50, mains from £13.75.
More information: from their website.