Hedonism turns its The White Horse pub into a wine bar

Opened in 2021, the Shepherd Market venue was initially billed as a wine-led pub and is from the same stable as high-end wine shop Hedonism, boutique café Hideaway and the Michelin-starred Hide restaurant (all in Mayfair). 

The entirety of the wine selection at Hedonism will still be available alongside a 100-strong wine list compiled by sommelier and Hedonism F&B director Matthew Mawtus. 

The food menu is focused on ‘elevated wine bar classics’ such as a cheese board selection from La Fromagerie, Wild Farmed baguette and homemade butter, charcuterie, and anchovies in Ligurian olive oil. 

Additionally a small number of ‘elegant, light dishes’ will change through the seasons with dishes on the opening menu including artichoke flower, crushed green herbs and ricotta; chicken liver parfait, fig and hibiscus chutney, toasted brioche; and beef cheek rillettes, garlic mayonnaise and cornichons. 

Set over two floors, the interiors at The White Horse are from Studio Caché and consist of ‘sultry, hedonistic combinations of dark, natural tones and textures’ with contemporary touches.

The ground floor has an open fireplace as a focal point with wooden bistro chairs and tables occupying most of the room as well as large windows overlooking the street. 

Downstairs, long tables are designed for larger groups and sharing, whilst distressed leather sofas and rattan armchairs make it the ‘perfect spot to while away an evening over a bottle or two’.

“We are so lucky to have access to the vast cellars at Hedonism, and want a chance to share that with a wider audience,” says Mawtus, who has overseen the creation of The White Horse’s new wine list. 

“Wine shouldn’t be daunting, it should be enjoyable and fun and we hope that The White Horse can be for those who know and love wine, but also those who just want to have a great evening and to drink something delicious.” 

Hide was launched in 2018​ ​by The Hedonism Group founders Yevgeny Chichvarkin and Tatiana Fokina.