Sale e Pepe, the iconic Italian restaurant in the heart of Knightsbridge, is about to reach a milestone as it celebrates its 50th anniversary. To commemorate its golden jubilee, the restaurant is undergoing a luxurious refurbishment that will pay homage to its rich legacy and bring a touch of ‘la dolce vita’ to London, set to reopen on 26th February. Now under the ownership of the Thesleff Group, which is renowned for its acclaimed portfolio – including Los Mochis Notting Hill and Viajante87 – the restaurant will be brought back to its former glory whilst also ensuring that its essence is preserved for the next generation of patrons.
Since it opened its doors in 1974 on Pavilion Road, Sale e Pepe has been a staple of the city’s dining scene. Its exceptional service and authentic cuisine have long made it a destination for the elite, attracting a glittering clientele of politicians, film stars, fashion icons, and royalty. Over the years, the restaurant has become synonymous with the style and sophistication of Italy, offering a taste of la dolce vita in London.
To ensure this legacy continues, Sale e Pepe is undergoing a luxurious redesign that will usher in its Renaissance era. The refurbishment will be led creatively by luxury interior designer Hamilford Design, who will draw inspiration from classic Italian design to create an elegant and inviting ambience.
The bar will transform into a space evocative of a grand Italian ristorante, with wood panelling, a marble-topped bar, and a large bronze mirror. The perfect spot for a daytime espresso or an evening martini, this space will no doubt become a popular meeting place for London’s stylish set. Moving through to the dining area, patrons will find low lights, atmospheric dark blue walls, intricate wallpaper, and bronze mirrors that add touches of elegance throughout. Drawing inspiration from the townhouses of Milan, the layout remains the same, but the décor has been elevated to new heights, ensuring that diners feel as if they have been transported to a chic Italian villa.
The menu will also be undergoing a revamp, to reflect the true Italian ‘famiglia’ culture of sharing. Sale e Pepe classics such as Vitello Milanese and Linguine all’Aragosta have been reimagined into larger portions that can be shared by everyone at the table. The new menu will also include Salt Baked Whole Seabass for Two, Tagliatelle Caviar and a large selection of Crudi.
After managing the restaurant for over 45 years, the much-loved original owner Toni Corricelli retired in June 2022 and handed over ownership to Markus Thesleff, a trusted restaurateur who has been a regular patron since childhood. Markus said: “We feel privileged to carry on Toni’s legacy and serve the loyal patrons of this iconic restaurant. It will be equally exhilarating and intimidating to unveil the new Sale e Pepe. We aim to breathe new life into the restaurant whilst paying homage to its rich history. We’re confident that Toni and our guests will be as thrilled as we are with the transformation.”
From February 2024, Sale e Pepe will be ready to welcome both regulars and newcomers alike. The restaurant promises to be the perfect encounter of tradition and sophistication, paying homage to authentic Italian hospitality and guiding guests into a new era of timeless elegance—the true essence of la dolce vita.
