The Cadogan, A Belmond Hotel, has announced the launch of The LaLee - an all-day neighbourhood café-restaurant in the heart of Chelsea. Tableside theatre, iconic and rare wines served by the glass and playful cocktails are centre stage at The LaLee.
Curated by Executive Chef Chris Hill (formerly Whatley Manor and The Ritz) the new all-day menu serves up familiar and favourite European dishes showcasing the highest-quality, ingredients sourced from London and across the United Kingdom. All-day dining dishes include Lobster Bisque and Croque Madame or Monsieur. Indulgent small plates such as Burrata with Pumpkin, and Pomegranate and Lobster Cocktail, or a sharing platter of fresh Oysters.
Comforting classics from Europe’s finest culinary cities include Aubergine Parmigiana, Steak Frites with Béarnaise Sauce to Wiener Schnitzel and Seabream Carpaccio – The Cadogan’s seafood take on the Italian classic, using fresh catch sourced from British waters. At dessert, the culinary voyage continues with a classic French pastry, Paris Brest, a punchy Rum Baba and a rich Cafe Gourmand or Tiramisu all on offer.
Notorious for romantic scandal and famed for risqué stage performances, Lillie Langtry didn’t shy away from drama. Bringing dramatics back into the dining room, The LaLee offers a selection of signature dishes that are artfully prepared at the table. Lighter options include the iconic dish Beef Tartare or Caesar Salad, followed by a classic Dover Sole – all served with a touch of tableside theatre.
Uniquely, over 80 wines on the menu are served by the glass, including an iconic Gevrey-Chambertin, one of only nine Grand Crus of its kind in Burgundy, a single vineyard Barolo from Piemonte, Italy, and classic Champagnes. A bespoke ‘Reserved for The Cadogan’ English sparkling has also been created exclusively for the hotel by Rathfinny Wine Estate, Sussex, England.
A new cocktail menu boasts a series of 15 signature creations, each inspired by a European city frequented by Langtry on adventures. Paying homage to Milan, a floral Mimosa al Garibaldi marries two of Italy’s most iconic drinks with fresh orange juice, Prosecco, Campari and Italicus Rosolio di Bergamotto, while a striking Cobalt and Tonic is a theatrical take on a gin and tonic, using Dutch gin, inspired by Langtry’s favourite colour and the vibrant sights and sounds of Amsterdam. For an afternoon aperitif with a twist, a Rome-groni - a rich blend of Gin Del Professore Madam, Reserva Speciale Rubino Vermouth and Espresso-infused Campari - is served as a single drink or to share with friends.
Harking back to an earlier, gilded age, The LaLee’s atmosphere revels in a boundless glamour, celebrating a time when slow travel was ubiquitous and when the leisurely journey was the reward. Contemporary touches are seamlessly blended with strands of hotel history, transporting the ambience of Langtry’s private dining room into the modern day. Dine by the fireplace on plush leather seating, marvel at the intricately designed cornicing and Langtry’s floral motif.
“The LaLee will take guests on a culinary journey to the grand cities of Europe, inspired by the voyages of one of the hotel’s most legendary past residents, and Chelsea socialite, Lillie Langtry. The new café-restaurant marks a new era for The Cadogan, with Lillie’s love of entertaining at the forefront and dishes served in true sophisticated Cadogan style with a touch of tableside theatre. Lillie Langtry would entertain the brightest stars of society, including the Prince of Wales, at 21 Pont Street – her elegant townhouse that became part of The Cadogan. Now, The LaLee brings Langtry’s spirit back to life, paying homage to the cuisine she adored during her epic travels”. – Comments Xavier Lablaude, General Manager, The Cadogan, A Belmond Hotel, London.
The Cadogan will further its culinary offering in 2022 with a chic Champagne bar and afternoon tea lounge.
The LaLee is now open for reservations from 7:00 am – 22:30 pm Monday to Sunday.
www.thelalee.co.uk / belmond.com
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