LPM
LIGHT, BRIGHT and irrepressibly summery, LPM is an outpost of the Mediterranean in the very heart of Mayfair. Tucked away behind Claridge’s, it’s geared towards a clientele of locals, some of whom are so devoted they visit three times a week. As well they might: it’s difficult to think of an establishment more seductive in style and presentation than this one. Indoors as well as out, the ambience is determinedly al fresco. On immaculate white tablecloths, fresh lemons and tomatoes cluster around bottles of olive oil. Elsewhere, glass vases filled with seasonal produce introduce pops of colour into an interior that could have been lifted straight from Cap Ferrat. Indeed, it’s tomatoes that provide the dominant note, from the orange-red awnings to the signature aperitif, the Tomatini.
No prizes for guessing that LPM’s informal décor, warm and apparently sun-drenched in the depths of winter, is merely a reflection of its cuisine. Drawing on the traditions of southern French and northern Italian cooking, fish, seafood, snails and salads feature prominently. There is, as you might imagine, a great deal of garlic. Parties of up to ten are served family-style, with dishes set down for everybody to help themselves. Sharing is encouraged, and even expected. LPM specialises in rosé wines. Its unique and super-chic cocktail menu is inspired by the life of Jean Cocteau.
