Alain Ducasse to open restaurant in London's Bulgari hotel
Alain Ducasse is to open a new restaurant in the Bulgari hotel in London in May, run by his protégé Damien Leroux.
The new venture is to be called Rivea London, and will be inspired by Ducasse's knowledge of the food markets in Italy and Provence. It replaces Il Ristorante, which will close on 23 March for a full refurbishment.
Ducasse already runs one restaurant under the Rivea brand, in St Tropez in France.
The London outpost will serve French and Italian cuisine in a "chic, convivial and relaxed" setting with a menu of small plates, incorporating the classic flavours and vivid colours of the Riviera.
Leroux spent more than 10 years under the tutelage of Ducasse in Provence and Monaco.
Ducasse said: "I am delighted to bring Rivea to such a vibrant culinary scene as London. The restaurant will encompass the essence of my cuisine, interpreted by my passionate young Chef Damien and inspired by the many artisan producers we have met in the Riviera.
"Damien's passion for vegetables will shine through in the dishes, where he will focus on the diversity of their flavours and textures."
Sylvain Ercoli, general manager of Bulgari hotel & residences, London, added: "I have known and admired Alain for many years and believe his new informal restaurant Rivea is ideal for London. Our hotel is very proud to have the first urban Rivea and we look forward to welcoming our guests, fellow Londoners and global travellers."
The Bulgari hotel opened in Knightsbridge in 2012 on the site of the former Normandie hotel and has 78 rooms, a restaurant, swimming pool and five apartments.
Bulgari Hotels & Resorts already operates hotels in Milan and Bali, and a restaurant, café and chocolate shop in Tokyo.
