The Elysee review

Private Dining for up to 250 guests in Percy Street, London

The private rooms at The Elysee are a very special space on Percy Street – formerly known as little Greece. The last of the Greek restaurants on the strip, it’s been owned by the same family for the last 78 years and has a rooftop garden that’s the envy of much of London. The Elysee also has three other striking private areas on the first floor which can be hired separately or in its entirety for an exclusive event of up to 250.

The interiors are true to their Georgian roots with high ceilings, ornate cornicing, panelled walls and striking fireplaces, while the grey and olive green Farrow and Ball-esque colours and stripped wooden floors give it the feel of some of the top members clubs in London – but without the membership fees. The artwork changes regularly due to the Elysee’s links with the gallery next door, while the ‘smashed plate chandelier’ was especially commissioned for the Elysee in 2010 and is a fine example of the eclectic style within a classic setting that the Elysee mixes so ably.

The cocktail bar with its glass drop chandelier can be hired with the middle room and outside terrace for up to 100 guests. The 700 sq ft terrace has been designed for the UK climate, it’s covered but with a fully retractable roof, is heated and surrounded by Mediterranean plants such as jasmine and olive trees. Catering for banquettes of up to 65 or 100 standing, it’s great for receptions, sports gatherings and as a space to party the night away.

The two private rooms, D1 and D2, are interlinked but can be hired separately or together. D1 has a drawing room feel, with sage green walls and an original Adams fireplace, it can seat 40 on round tables, 60 standing or 30-35 as a U-shape. D2 is flooded with natural light from a bay window at the end and is more of an oblong shape. It can seat 24 on one large table or 30-40 standing, although this is often used for pre-drinks before dinner in D1 or combined for sit down dinners for up to 64. Padded cream leather chairs in both private rooms add to the feeling of private club luxury.

Menus range in price but Meze is Elysee’s speciality. With three courses of dishes to share for £39.00 per person there are hot and cold starters with main course dishes of platters of meat and sides, finished with Greek sweets and fresh fruit. Sunday to Thursdays the rooms are often used for product launches, christenings, wedding receptions, anniversary parties as well as relaxed corporate meetings, get togethers and celebrations. Minimum spend for private hire starts at £500. Each room has its own music feed and there are dedicated toilets for the floor.

There’s a 3.30am licence most nights, while the kitchen only closes at 3. Downstairs, the main restaurant can also be hired exclusively along with its 5 piece band and four singers flown in direct from Greece, plate smashing and dance shows. Prices and available dates on application.

The Elysée – Private Dining Room in Percy Street for up to 250 guests