The Wolseley

The Wolseley is a grand café-restaurant on Piccadilly, opened in 2003 in a building designed in the 1920s as a car showroom for Wolseley Motors and later used as a bank. Its soaring vaulted ceilings, black and gold decoration, marble floors and large arched windows give it the feel of a great European café, and it has become one of London's best-known places for breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea and dinner. The restaurant serves all day, so it suits almost any schedule.

Breakfast is a highlight, from a full English to grilled kippers, eggs in many forms and freshly baked viennoiserie. Later in the day the menu draws on classic European café cooking, which has traditionally included dishes such as schnitzel and steak tartare alongside salads and grills, followed by cakes and pastries. Afternoon tea is served every day, with sandwiches, scones, cakes and pastries. The menu changes over time, so check the current version online, but the format of classic dishes served with polished service is long established.

The Wolseley suits business breakfasts, celebrations, visitors exploring Piccadilly and anyone who enjoys a sense of occasion without the formality of fine dining. It is popular, so the room is usually lively, and it can be a good place to people-watch. Families are welcome. Although it feels grand, there is no strict formality, and smart casual clothing fits in well.

Breakfast starts at 07:00 on weekdays and 08:00 at weekends. Reservations can be made online through the booking link on the official website or by phone, and booking is recommended for dinner, weekend brunch and afternoon tea. Some tables may be available for walk-ins at quieter times, particularly mid-afternoon. The original Wolseley on Piccadilly is part of a group that now also includes a Wolseley in the City.

The restaurant is on Piccadilly, next to the Ritz and a short walk from Green Park Underground station on the Jubilee, Piccadilly and Victoria lines, with Piccadilly Circus also close. Fortnum & Mason, the Royal Academy of Arts, Burlington Arcade and St James's are all within a few minutes' walk, and Green Park lies just across the road for a stroll after a meal.