Sexy Fish, the much-anticipated new Asian fish and seafood restaurant from Caprice Holdings, opened on the 19th October in Berkeley Square.
The restaurant pairs its contemporary cuisine with cutting-edge art and design pieces to create a dynamic new dining experience. The Asian-inspired menus will concentrate on fish and seafood, and will be overseen by head chef Ben Orpwood, whose previous experience spans roles in Istanbul, Dubai, Sydney and Tokyo.
Martin Brudnizki Design Studio is responsible for the innovative décor at the restaurant which includes special pieces by several impressive international artists. The walls and ceilings showcase some extraordinary works by Frank Gehry including a selection of Fish Lamps – the largest collection of the pieces in one venue. The shimmering fish-shaped light fixtures hang above the bar, softly glowing and undulating to reflect the movement of real fish through water. A giant crocodile sculpture with black, reflective mosaic scales climbs the north wall of the dining room.
World-renowned artist Damien Hirst has also created three site-specific artworks for the restaurant. Two cast bronze mermaids rendered in blue patina will be positioned at either end of the bar. Also featured will be a large bronze relief panel by the artist depicting a mermaid and a shark, in reference to his work, The Physical Impossibility of Death in the Mind of Someone Living (1991).
A focal point of the 190-seat restaurant will be a large ceiling mural created by Michael Roberts – one of fashion’s most respected figures. He is currently the style editor-at-large of Vanity Fair, but has also worked as fashion director at The Sunday Times, Tatler and Vogue.
The Coral Reef Room on the lower level will be an exclusive and dramatically designed private dining space with its own integral bar, a large live coral reef tank and seating for up to 48.
“This has been a project very close to owner Richard Caring’s heart,” explains Laura Montana, new projects operations director of Caprice Holdings. “He wants to bring some fun, life and excitement to this corner of Berkeley Square, with the magic mix of a compelling physical environment, full of lively contemporary art, and an alluring menu that will appeal not only to the fashionable Mayfair crowd, but also a wider audience of food and art lovers.”
