The story
Novikov Restaurant in London bridges Italian cuisine and contemporary Asian flavours beneath one Mayfair roof. Recognised by Gault & Millau with a 13-point rating, the venue operates through coordinated kitchens that prioritise premium ingredients and precise technique.
Specialist chefs run separate Italian and Asian stations to keep regional methods intact while allowing deliberate cross-pollination of ideas. The Italian side centres around an imposing wood-fired oven that cooks handmade pasta and roasted meats to order. Across the room, an open Asian kitchen displays whole seafood and crisp vegetables behind glass, channeling the energy of a traditional food market. Executive chef Marti Pineda oversees both operations, ensuring that novel flavour pairings and careful textural contrasts remain consistent across every service.
Suede wall panelling lines the main dining room, where mirrors framed in solid oak reflect light from rustic chandeliers. The layout encourages conversation while maintaining clear sightlines to the active cooking zones. Guests seated near the Asian counter watch staff prepare dim sum and Pan-Asian plates directly from the preparation tables. Structured seating arrangements and tailored lighting create a refined backdrop that suits everything from weekday business lunches to evening gatherings.
A dedicated sommelier team curates the cellar, focusing on European producers and limited-release vintages that complement both Italian cuisine and Asian dishes. Members of the Wine Club receive priority access to masterclasses and exclusive tasting evenings hosted alongside the kitchen staff. The adjacent Lounge Bar shifts the focus toward crafted cocktails and live DJ performances after the main service concludes. Private dining rooms accommodate corporate functions or milestone celebrations with flexible layouts.
Recognition
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