Paul Hamlyn Hall

Elegant Dining with Covent Garden Views

On a recent visit to the illustriously set Hamlyn Hall, part of the Royal Opera House's dining offerings, I was as charmed by the atmosphere as I was puzzled by their dining logistics. This magnificent venue, graced by majestic views of Covent Garden, seems a quaint haven for opera-goers preparing their palates as much as their ears for a night at the opera. Enshrined within an airy garden-like atrium, dining here feels not just like a meal but a prelude to the grandeur of an opera evening. However, be forewarned: securing a reservation entails navigating an elaborate ritual of pre-selecting menus—a detail as surprising as it is antique, though my server informed me that it ultimately enhances the overall experience.

Amidst this minor perplexity stands an exceptional staff eager to enrich your experience; Martin, our waiter for the night, epitomized attentiveness with a Blackburn charm that lent a personal touch to the professional service. For those with similar taste profiles to mine, rejoice—the beef cheeks are exquisite, yet be mindful that vegetarian options might leave something to be desired; ambition in flavor could match their high price point. Nevertheless, sipping bubbly under the cathedral-like arches while awaiting an interval confection bore its own reward—an indulgence of space and time fitting for the venue’s opulence. Concluding on an unstoppable note, an unexpected encounter with Andrew Lloyd Webber wandering past our table rounded off an unforgettable night. It's a place where the intersection of artistry and eloquent dining hopes not only to satiate but inspire. — Nigel Gourmet