Opening today (19 November), The LaLee is inspired by socialite Lillie Langtry, a former resident of the hotel, and will serve an all-day menu of 'familiar and favourite' European dishes overseen by The Cadogan's executive chef, Chris Hill.
It follows the closure of Adam Handling Chelsea in October after the chef’s consultancy deal to oversee the entirety of the Belmond-owned hotel’s F&B offer came to an end.
“The LaLee will take guests on a culinary journey to the grand cities of Europe, inspired by the voyages of one of the hotel’s most legendary past residents, and Chelsea socialite, Lillie Langtry," explains Xavier Lablaude, general manager at The Cadogan.
"The new café-restaurant marks a new era for The Cadogan, with Lillie’s love of entertaining at the forefront and dishes served in true sophisticated Cadogan style with a touch of tableside theatre.
"Lillie Langtry would entertain the brightest stars of society, including the Prince of Wales, at 21 Pont Street – her elegant townhouse that became part of The Cadogan. Now, The LaLee brings Langtry’s spirit back to life, paying homage to the cuisine she adored during her epic travels.”
Dishes from across the European continent feature on the menu, and include aubergine parmigiana; steak frites with béarnaise sauce; wiener schnitzel; and lobster bisque.
There will also be a selection of 'signature' dishes prepared tableside such as beef tartare; Caesar salad; and Dover sole.
The drinks list will serve more than 80 wines by the glass, and include a new cocktail menu featuring a a floral Mimosa al Garibaldi; the Cobalt and Tonic made using Dutch tonic; and a Rome-groni made with gin del professore madam, Reserva Speciale Rubino vermouth and espresso-infused Campari.
The Cadogan adds that it will further its culinary offering in 2022 with a new Champagne bar and afternoon tea lounge.
