On Wednesday 12th November 2003 The Wolseley first opened its doors. The concept was to fuse European grandeur with British heritage, pioneered by our founders within our landmark 1920’s building on Piccadilly. It quickly became known for a unique blend of exceptional service, comforting dishes and a convivial restaurant floor, and from Sunday 12th November 2023 we mark this twenty year milestone.
A Look Back
The grand, atmospheric interiors with its towering pillars, arches, and stairways remain and the restaurants’ name, are a testament to one of the building’s previous residents, Wolseley Motors LTD, who commissioned architect, William Curtis Green, to design a prestigious car showroom in London’s West End. He drew on Venetian and Florentine influences, as well as incorporating the Eastern exotic touches that were in fashion in the time. Barclays Bank then acquired the building 6 years later, the former counter now the classic horseshoe shape of the tables, and the bar as we know it today, was originally added by Barclays as managers’ offices.
This attention to detail and considered thought was applied to all aspects of the curation of The Wolseley experience, through menu development, tableware selection, uniform design, service style and more. Delivering a true all day dining experience from 7am Monday morning, and every day since.
Celebrate With Us
To honour the 20th anniversary, the team has created a limited-edition set menu, featuring a range of nostalgic favourites of the past decades, many of which graced our first ever menu, think Matjes Herring, Wiener Schnitzel, Coupe Lucien and Jonah’s Chocolate Sandwich. The special menu is available between 12 – 30 November, for both lunch and dinner. What celebration would be complete without a cake, upon departure guests will receive a slice of our Battenberg, contained within a commemorative anniversary box. This quintessentially British icon is a true labour of love and menu staple since 2003. Our Pastry team makes each Battenberg by hand over the course of three days, rich with pistachio, the sponge is soaked in syrup before being sandwiched together with our homemade marmalade. This commitment is reflective of the team’s dedication, approaching everyday serving you our discerning guests.
The team, several of whom have been with us since our conception, look back over the last 20 years with immense pride and gratitude, and would like to thank you, our customers, guests and friends for your ongoing support.
