Harrods, an icon of luxury retail, has once again elevated its dining experience with the grand reopening of The Georgian restaurant. This renowned establishment has undergone a significant transformation, bringing it back into the limelight as a premier dining destination within the iconic department store, which has captivated shoppers for 175 years.
The Legacy of Harrods
From its introduction of the UK’s first escalator to selling exotic animals and hosting celebrities like Michael Jackson, Harrods has always been synonymous with retail theatre. The recent enhancements to The Georgian not only reinforce this legacy but also showcase the department store’s commitment to combining shopping with exquisite culinary experiences. With over 10 million visitors annually, Harrods is turning its focus towards creating dining environments that are as memorable as the shopping itself.
Harrods, now owned by the Qatar Investment Authority, has invested heavily in revitalizing its dining offerings over the past few years. Following extensive renovations led by David Collins Studio, The Georgian has emerged as a stunning 164-seat restaurant, complete with a roof terrace set to open soon. The space, adorned with 25 grand chandeliers and luxurious velvet booths, embodies elegance and comfort, making it an enticing setting for both casual diners and those seeking a lavish experience.
Afternoon Tea — A Timeless Tradition
One of the main attractions of The Georgian is its afternoon tea service, which has been a staple since the restaurant’s inception in 1911. Executive pastry chef Markus Bohr and his team of 60 talented bakers create an impressive array of intricate desserts and pastries. On the reopening day, guests were treated to a £75 ($96) afternoon tea experience that is anything but ordinary.
Departing from the traditional tiered stand often associated with afternoon tea, this service opts for a multi-course offering. Guests begin with an amuse-bouche featuring tender slow-cooked short rib served on a crispy wafer. Following this, they enjoy innovative bites such as a Godminster cheddar custard tart topped with fresh apple. Finger sandwiches, whether classic cucumber or decadent duck à la orange, cater to diverse palates, while the replenishment of favorites is a thoughtful touch that pays homage to the personalized service Harrods is known for.
The highlight of the afternoon tea is undoubtedly the warm scones, freshly baked and accompanied by a jam trolley featuring seasonal and classic flavors. The combination of light, flaky scones with rich clotted cream and a standout blackcurrant preserve creates a superb tasting experience. To finish, guests can indulge in an exquisite selection of desserts, including a stunning mini gateau and a delightful sablé biscuit.
A Savory Evening — Experience the Pie
As evening approaches, The Georgian shifts its focus to dinner, now overseen by the celebrated chef Calum Franklin, known for his expertise in savory pastries. His menu embraces British culinary heritage, drawing inspiration from archived recipes spanning over a century. A standout feature is the £90 centerpiece pie, presented with flourish and served directly at the table, ensuring a theatrical dining experience.
The highlight of the evening is the slow-cooked lamb shoulder encased in gloriously crisp short crust pastry. This dish embodies the essence of both comfort food and fine dining, delivering rich flavors and delightful textures. Accompanied by ratatouille and deep-fried lamb sweetbreads, this dish is an example of culinary innovation that honors British traditions.
As diners indulge in the pie, they are also presented with a selection of additional savory options, which include expertly crafted starters such as a smoked haddock Scotch egg and a lavish pâté en croûte. These dishes not only showcase Franklin’s creativity but also reaffirm The Georgian’s objective to provide guests with a memorable and sophisticated dining experience.
A Bright Future for Dining at Harrods
The revitalization of The Georgian aligns with Harrods’ long-term strategy to integrate dining into the retail experience. Ashley Saxton, the director of restaurants, recognizes that a compelling dining experience is crucial for attracting new customers and enhancing the overall allure of the store. Harrods aims to position itself not only as a shopping destination but also as a culinary haven, enticing food lovers and shopping enthusiasts alike.
As Harrods moves forward with The Georgian, it continues to honor its rich history while fostering an environment that embraces contemporary dining trends and customer preferences. This balance of tradition and modernity is key to Harrods’ enduring success in the luxury market.
With its grand reopening, The Georgian serves as both a culinary destination and a testament to Harrods’ dedication to creating memorable experiences. This fusion of luxury dining and high-end retail experience ensures that Harrods remains a must-visit for anyone looking to indulge in the finer things in life.
