Via JustOpenedLondon

The team behind Mayfair’s award-winning spot Kitty Fisher’s launch a second restaurant in Covent Garden – Cora Pearl is now open.

Named after the infamous nineteenth-century courtesan, Cora Pearl draws inspiration from her extraordinary life filled with Parisian parties and drama.

The Spot:

Taking cues from the decadent era, Cora Pearl resides in an historic townhouse with upholstered wall panels, vintage mirrors and lights, while velvet green banquettes and wooden furnishings are fitted throughout the main dining area. The setting is slightly more intimate downstairs, where an open kitchen and cocktail bar welcomes you for late-night dining and drinking.

The Food:

Led by chef George Barson – formerly the head chef at Kitty Fisher’s – Cora Pearl combines elements of British and French cuisine. To start, there’s leek heart with smoked eel, quail with baby gem and charcuterie with pickles, while main courses include more comforting options such as fish stew with croutons. It’s safe to say Cora Pearl liked indulging – desserts include chocolate ganache with malt ice cream, coffee and cardamom sponge cake, and a trifle to share (or not).

The Drinks:

Cora Pearl serves Old World wines and cocktails, varying from classics (Martinis and the obligatory French Pearl) to new offerings. The “Chaine d’Or” (French for gold chain) is named after four wealthy men who made Cora Pearl famous, featuring gin, Quinquina, Chartreuse and lime.

The Damage:

Dishes vary between £5 and £26.

In a Nutshell:

The decadent menu and design feels a lot like a theatrical production, but that’s exactly why Cora Pearl fits perfectly within Covent Garden – rich in history and filled with theatregoers.

If you’re looking for other amazing places to eat and drink in this area, check out our interactive map with London’s best new restaurants and bars.