The Luxury Travel Magazine
The Luxury Travel Magazine
By Tia Lewis
When thinking of Mayfair, modern luxury springs to mind. Yet, within this prestigious London neighbourhood, a storied past of the 20th century lives. In a legacy of a bygone era reimagined, Canadian restaurateur Joey Ghazal invites patrons to dine in The Maine London. A modern merge of New England’s coastal dining and Mayfair’s distinguished past.
Set within a restored Georgian Townhouse, The Maine London transports guests away to the heyday of 1920s Mayfair while simultaneously evoking the coastal charm of New England. Successfully capturing the essence of the jazz age, The Maine London invites diners to indulge in an era of time in which glamour and rebellion were inextricably linked. In a fusion of New England cuisine and British Culinary traditions, the menu pays homage to the summers founder Joey Ghazal spent in Maine as a child and his love for the state.
Officially opened in November 2021, The Maine London resides in 20 Hanover Square. The only surviving ‘Grade II’ listed building on the newly renovated Mayfair square. Crowned as ‘restaurateur of the year 2018’ Joey Ghazal has created a concept that offers a dining experience that captures the heart of Maine, USA known for its fresh seafood and rustic dishes within the context of London. Rooted in the vision of cross-continental culinary exchange, The Maine London represents a bridge between the coasts of Maine and the extravagance of Mayfair. The speakeasy jazz vibe provides a sense of exclusivity, while the New England elements add a layer of authenticity.
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"Rooted in the vision of cross-continental culinary exchange, The Maine London represents a bridge between the coasts of Maine and the extravagance of Mayfair."
Offering a distinct yet cohesive ambience, each room combines the storied past of both New England and Mayfair. Upon entering The Brasserie Room, diners are transported to a cabaret club with high ceilings and chandeliers. Plush velvet seating and vintage décor elements such as brass fixtures add to the nostalgic feel. Each seat faces the main stage, which features burlesque performances and live jazz. Ultimately, The Brasserie room is a snapshot of the timeworn New England Brassiere or much similarly the clandestine Mayfair Speakeasy from the prohibition era.
Tucked within the originally vaulted brick cellar of the house, The Tavern with its long zinc bar and exposed brick work is the collision of the British pub and Speakeasy bar. The skilled mixologists man the bar, suited and booted in crips shirts and bow ties. The re-imagined drawing room, original of the Duke of Montrose, blends a mid-century aesthetic with a contemporary one. Antique mirrors and classic artwork pay homage to Mayfair’s aristocratic history and New England coastal homes. Perfect for intimate gatherings, a cocktail can be enjoyed under the Capiz shell chandelier, a nod to the East Coast.
‘The all-seasons terrace’ is a modern take on a traditional British / New England coastal garden. Wicker furniture and ambient lighting make the area both ‘atmospheric by day and seductive by night.’
When expertise combine, magic happens. Founder Joey Ghazal and Head Chef Stuart Caldwell merged to curate a menu that seamlessly blends New England and British culinary traditions. With inspiration drawn from Ghazals many summers spent in Maine as a child and Chef Stuart Caldwell’s extensive background in both British and American kitchens, the pair offer a distinctive culinary experience.
Setting stage for the main meal are the starters. Chargrilled octopus and fresh shucked oysters showcase the rich flavours of New England. The classic platter which is a selection of shrimp, tuna, crab and muscles, served raw emphasise the coastal influence. Moving onto the main course British classics are well represented, with dishes like grilled whole seabass, sourced from the UK. Signature New England offerings include the lobster rolls, and truffle roasted chicken. For a sweet conclusion, the dessert menu features nods to British tradition with sticky toffee pudding and soft centred cookies, an American classic. Signature cocktails incorporate New England ingredients such as cranberry or maple syrup, while the wine list features British and American selections.
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"When expertise combine, magic happens. Founder Joey Ghazal and Head Chef Stuart Caldwell merged to curate a menu that seamlessly blends New England and British culinary traditions."
As diners enjoy their meals, talented musicians play a mixture of classic and contemporary jazz pieces with a live singer. The vibrant atmosphere evokes the spirit of speakeasies and hidden clubs where were popular in both New England and London during the Prohibition era. In addition to jazz, cabaret acts, with their elaborate costumes and enticing routines, add a touch of vintage extravagance. A feature reminiscent of early 20th century entertainment in the high societies of both America and Britain.
The Maine London also houses a secret club reminiscent of a 1920s speakeasy. Accessible through a discreet entrance, the club offers an intimate and exclusive setting. Low lighting, an extensive cocktail menu captures the allure of the reminiscent hidden bar.
One particular stand out point at the Maine London is the attentive, but never rushed service. Whether it’s a casual inquiry regarding the ingredients in a dish or a special birthday request for the table, the staff at Maine handle everything with efficiency and grace. From the moment of arrival, a professional hostess sets the tone for the evening with a warm welcome. With an apparent attention to detail, the hosts anticipate guests needs without being intrusive, creating a relaxed atmosphere. Once seated, a dedicated waiter, dressed in a smart suit and bow tie will attend to your table and will remain at your service for the entirety of the evening. This continuity allows for a personalised experience, ensuring each guest is catered with care.
The Maine London stands out as a unique culinary destination. Joe Ghazal and his staff have been able to seamlessly marry the coastal, hearty flavours of Maine with the refined atmosphere of London’s most prestigious neighbourhood. This fusion is evident in every detail from the menu to the décor as well as the service. The Maine London is the epitome of two distinct worlds coming together to offer a dining experience that is rich in authenticity and character.
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