A Mediterranean Escape in the Heart of London
As the summer of 2026 approaches, Londoners are in for a treat. While the city may not offer sun-soaked Greek island getaways, GAIA Mayfair is set to transport you to the Mediterranean without leaving the city limits. This luxurious restaurant, with its vibrant daily fish market and wood-fired oven, is a taste of the Greek islands right here in the capital.
A Culinary Journey
GAIA Mayfair, curated by Chefs Izu Ani and Orestis Kotefas, offers a menu that is a feast for the senses. The warm olive bread, paired with the Greek salad, sets the tone for a culinary journey. The standout dish, however, was the Sea Bream Carpaccio, with its three dressings and fresh, delicate flavours. The lightly smoked tuna carpaccio, with its bold truffle dressing, was equally impressive. The spinach and feta pie, with its thick, flaky pastry, and the barrel-aged feta, baked with honey and nuts, were perfect side dishes.
Main Courses and Desserts
For the main course, the lobster linguine is a must-try, with its rich cherry tomato sauce. The black rigatoni with truffle is equally indulgent, with its creamy sauce. The homemade frozen Greek yogurt, served with honey and loukoumades, is a refreshing dessert, while the peanut tart is a delightful combination of peanut butter shortbread, salted caramel, and milk chocolate cremeux.
A Cocktail to Match
GAIA has also unveiled its first standalone cocktail bar, with a new drinks menu titled 'A Modern Vision on Traditional Craft'. The space is sleek and sophisticated, with elegant arches and warm natural textures. The THEO 20, a popular cocktail, is a must-try, with its Patrón Silver Tequila and Skinos Mastiha. The Gamma Negroni, with its Bacardi Ocho Rum and coffee-infused Martini Rubino Vermouth, is equally impressive.
A Mediterranean Escape in the City
GAIA Mayfair is more than just a restaurant; it's an escape to the Mediterranean. The crisp white table linens, softly lit amber lanterns, and Grecian-inspired vases create an atmosphere that feels both refined and relaxed. The attention to detail, from the daily fish market to the elegant arches, makes GAIA a unique dining experience. While a sun-soaked escape to the Greek islands may not be on the cards this summer, GAIA Mayfair is the perfect way to savour the flavours of the Mediterranean without leaving the city.
Final Thoughts
In my opinion, GAIA Mayfair is a must-visit for anyone looking for a taste of the Mediterranean in London. The menu, curated by Chefs Izu Ani and Orestis Kotefas, is a feast for the senses, with dishes that are both indulgent and refreshing. The cocktail bar, with its sleek and sophisticated space, is equally impressive. While a sun-soaked escape to the Greek islands may not be on the cards this summer, GAIA Mayfair is the perfect way to savour the flavours of the Mediterranean without leaving the city. Personally, I think it's a hidden gem that should not be missed.
