London design hotspot: Social Wine and Tapas Bar

Jason Atherton's latest London restaurant is a beauty, says Kate Lough
A beauty: Jason Atherton's Social Wine and Tapas
Kate Lough24 June 2015

The look: Jason Atherton's sixth London restaurant - or rather wine shop and tapas bar - is a magpie's dream with metallic flourishes woven throughout its design. Think cooper artwork on the walls, steel grey tiling behind the bar, and burnished gold light fittings - all mixed in with industrial features such as the chandelier in the entrance and poured concrete floors in the Cellar Bar, to make for a contemporary, urban aesthetic. Upstairs, polished wood tables are set against emerald green leather chairs and stools, while downstairs it's all about timber and wine-red seating. On both levels, bottles and glassware line the walls, a nod to the emphasis on drink in Atherton's latest endeavour.

Who's behind it: The award-winning Russell Sage Studio, who are also to thank for the design of other London restaurants including The Grain Store, Quaglino's and The Savoy Grill, worked in tandem with Atherton to transform this old office in St James street.

Pairing up: Atherton and his wife worked on Social Wine & Tapas

What should I try: It pays to go off piste from your usual tapas suspects here - try the chargrilled carrots with burnt aubergine and the rose veal and foie gras sliders with pulled pork, avocado and pickled cucumber. Drinks-wise, put yourself in the hands of the sommelier and go off-piste.

Excellent: chargrilled carrots

Go there if: you're into your wine - you can also buy some to take home from the shop. Since you can't make a booking, it might be risky for a first date.

Cheque out: Around £50 per head based on 2-3 tapas plates and including wine.

How do I book? You can't. Visit socialwineandtapas.com for more information.

Find it: 39 James St, W1U 1DL

Nearest tube: Bond Street

A guide to London's design hotspots

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