What draws me to Greek mythology is the intricate tapestry of love, loss and power – stories so outrageous, so extraordinary, that they continue to ignite the imagination and shape our narratives today. These timeless myths, steeped in divine passion and human folly, have an almost magnetic pull.
So when I first heard of Bacchanalia—a Greco-Roman-inspired eatery nestled in the heart of Mayfair—it felt as if the universe had conspired to manifest a restaurant that was a vivid projection of my wildest dreams.
While I may not possess the ability to time travel and experience the opulence and hedonism of the ancient world, stepping into Bacchanalia came remarkably close.
Behind the velvet ropes, pass the threshold, a mythical realm beckons. With each step I took, I was utterly mesmerised by the enchanting décor that unfolded before me. The interior is nothing short of breathtaking. Majestic marble columns rise to the heavens, intricate mosaics line the floors, and hand-painted ceiling murals bring to life scenes from Greek mythology.
It was as if Bacchus himself – the roman god of wine – invited me to revel in heavenly indulgence.
While the 2,000-year-old artwork is undeniably captivating, the true pièce de resistance lies in the magnificent statues that dominate the main dining room, designed by the renowned artist Damien Hirst. These incredible masterpieces — featuring a majestic Pegasus, a mystical unicorn, a fierce griffin, the iconic Medusa, and even Bacchus himself—transport you into a mythical dimension. Hirst’s creations capture the grandeur and divine power of Greco-Roman antiquity, imbuing each piece with an almost palpable sense of life.
Curated by the acclaimed interior architect Martin Brudnizki, the space is a visual feast reminiscent of ancient banquets, that sets the tone for an unforgettable dining experience.
Embarking on an immersive dining experience like no other, my senses were blown away. The culinary journey at Bacchanalia is nothing short of a tantalising odyssey. Each dish at Bacchanalia is a masterpiece, meticulously crafted to showcase the rich, vibrant flavours of the Mediterranean. The ingredients, like the stories of the gods, are both bold and complex—each bite a sensory revelation pulling you deeper into a world where food transcends mere sustenance and becomes an experience unto itself. It pays homage to the ancient world where the gods themselves might dine.
For my starter, I chose the Grilled Octopus, a dish that captured the essence of the sea with its perfectly charred tenderness. Paired with a smooth Greek fava puree, its earthy sweetness was balanced by the rich, spiced depth of onion stifado. A wild oregano dressing crowned the plate, its fragrant tang evoking the sun-drenched hillsides of the Mediterranean.
Next came the Strip Loin Tagliata, a dish fit for the gods. The tender strip loin, seared to perfection, was drizzled with a luscious green peppercorn sauce that had just the right amount of bite. Pickled onions added a sharp, tangy contrast, while a delicate crunch from the crispy potato completed the dish in divine balance.
To continue this mythological feast, I indulged in the Tagliatelle Truffle—a luxurious plate drenched in lashings of rich, earthy truffle. The silky pasta, with its delicate bite, was enveloped in the truffle’s intoxicating aroma, a flavor so decadently rich it seemed to echo the opulence of ancient feasts. Each mouthful was a glorious reminder that indulgence, in all its forms, was never far from the hearts of the gods.
Finally, for dessert, I surrendered to the decadent Tiramisu, a sweet, ethereal creation that seemed almost too heavenly to be of this world. Layers of mascarpone, coffee, and cocoa were expertly balanced to create a perfect end to an unforgettable meal. With each spoonful, I was transported further into a realm of pure indulgence, the kind that would make Aphrodite swoon.
Like temples carved by the gods, the lavatories in Bacchanalia are a spectacle in their own right…
The women’s bathroom is a vision of ethereal beauty. Over 400,000 shimmering tiles have been used to craft a breathtaking oasis, evoking the Garden of Hesperides—the mythical grove where golden apples once grew.
Meanwhile, the men’s bathroom is equally captivating, though in a darker, more mysterious way. With high-gloss black tiles that glisten like polished obsidian, the space evokes the haunting beauty of Hades’ underworld.
Both bathrooms feature mirrored doors framed in gleaming gold, reflecting the opulence and mythological grandeur that permeate the entire experience.
During my time at Bacchanalia, I stumbled across Apollo’s Muse. A clandestine sanctuary, more alluring than a siren’s call, enchants the senses and celebrates the hedonistic spirit of the ancients. Here, the divine and mortal collide in perfect harmony, offering a fleeting escape into a world where indulgence knows no limits.
Among the many delights offered, I couldn’t resist exploring the cocktail menu—an artful blend of innovation and tradition. First, I savored the Pearl of Spices—a velvety, decadent mix of Bulleit Rye Whiskey, coconut, mint, cocoa, and spices. It was rich and complex, with a silky cream finish that was sublime.
Next, the Mediterranea captivated me. Casamigos Blanco Tequila, Italicus, and poblano pepper created a perfect balance, while apricot, cucumber, and basil brought a refreshing summer burst. Each sip was a testament to the artistry of Apollo’s Muse.
Head Office +44 (0) 20 3720 6320 | WhatsApp +44 (0) 7876 773 638
About Us | Buy Our Magazine | Newsletter | Advertise | Privacy Notice | Competition T&Cs
© 2020 – 2024 – Weddings & Honeymoons Media Limited (Company Registration No: 13383661)
