The restaurant and cocktail bar will open in spring 2013 as part of a multi-million pound renovation of the Keeper’s House at the Academy which is part of the eastern wing of Burlington House.
Although there are no details yet on the theme and menu for the restaurant, Peyton said he is developing an innovative concept which would represent a new evolution for the Peyton and Byrne group he chairs.
"The RA and I share a commitment to constantly improving the experience of those visiting this world-class institution," Peyton said.
"Developing these important spaces for the public, the Friends of the Royal Academy and the eminent artists and architects that make up the Royal Academicians is hugely worthwhile. This is a fantastic opportunity for us and I intend to create a very different restaurant for the Keeper’s House, one that really pushes the boundaries of dining in public spaces," Peyton added.
Ninth restaurant
It is believed the restaurant team will link closely with the new Keeper's House programme of exhibitions and will host events and dinners to link with the cultural offering in the refurbished venue including book readings, artists' talks and workshops.
The new restaurant and bar will be located on a currently unused floor of the Keeper’s House when the renovation, with interiors designed by Sir David Chipperfield, is complete. Peyton and Byrne is hoping to make the restaurant and bar a destination venue for workers and locals as well as tourists and visitors to the Piccadilly area as it will also be open outside of gallery hours. The restaurant will be directly accessible from the courtyard and Royal Academy front hall.
When open, the restaurant will be the ninth for Peyton and Byrne and the second in the Royal Academy of Arts. The company operates a number of eateries in public spaces in the capital focusing on parks and national institutions including a restaurant and café in the National Gallery. The team also run several bakeries and an online ingredients shop.