FOOD & BOOZE NEWS
THE MILROY: NOT JUST FOR MEMBERS
Ever heard of The Milroy restaurant? Unless you’re a member of private casino Les Ambassadeurs, probably not. Previously only accessible to members The Milroy has flung open its doors to the hoi palloi for lunch. If the superlative European food, cooked by Simon Foster, previously of Claridge’s and La Tante Claire isn’t enough for you, consider the history. Built in 1810 and extravagantly remodelled by Leopold de Rothschild in the 1870s, the building was once home to the cream of the aristocracy, including the Marquis Conyngham and the Rothschild families. Anyone with pretensions of grandeur, get thee to The Milroy post-haste. 5 Hamilton Place, W1J 7ED, www.themilroy.com
TAPAS BIBLE IS PUBLISHED
Phaidon’s definitive Book of Tapas by Simone and Inés Ortega presents the collection of must-have recipes, from gambas al ajillo to tortilla española. Essential reading for anyone who likes Spanish food. £24.95, www.phaidon.co.uk
TOM AIKENS AT SOMERSET HOUSE
So long as the weather behaves, Somerset House will become a summer idyll with the opening of a Tom Aikens eatery and late-night lounge on the terrace. Set up with a groovy bar under a marquee, Tom’s Terrace is kitted out with an assortment of high tables and stools and a rather chic set of lounge chairs, sofas and tables round the side for smokers and nibblers to perch. The drinks list is long and good, with plenty of wine and martinis I can vouch for. Bar snacks are delightful: think salted giant corn and foie gras parfait. To reserve, call 020 7845 4646 or email tomsevents@somersethouse.org.uk