Shepherd Market is about to gain a new local favourite and it comes with a wink to Mayfair’s mischievous past.
Ahead of its anticipated October opening, The Shepherd Mayfair has offered a first glimpse inside Fayre, its signature neighbourhood restaurant, and the early signs suggest it will be one of autumn’s most charming arrivals.
Fayre takes inspiration from the historic May Fair that once occupied the surrounding fields, and the design leans into that heritage with theatrical flair. Expect rich berry tones, dark timber panelling and banquette seating, all brought to life by Adam Ellis’s wall coverings, which depict lively scenes of livestock markets, performers and games of chance — a playful nod to the area’s colourful history.
The 62‑cover dining room will serve seasonal British produce alongside refined European classics, with early menu highlights including lobster and prawn brioche rolls, braised beef short rib croquettes, citrus‑cured trout and a beef Wellington pithivier . And for those who believe dessert should always come with a bit of theatre, Fayre launches a weekly “Puddings by the Glass” series, starting with a strawberry and Champagne trifle — a sweet little ritual designed to tempt regulars back again and again.
Beyond Fayre, the hotel will also introduce The Lounge, a relaxed all‑day café and bar dressed in forest‑green velvet and natural timber finishes, complete with illustrations by British artist John Broadley. It’s the kind of space that promises easy morning coffees, casual lunches and the sort of early‑evening drinks that turn into unexpectedly long conversations.
The Shepherd Mayfair itself occupies the site of Mayfair’s oldest house, dating back to 1618, and draws this history into a contemporary expression of quiet luxury. With 70 rooms, 12 suites, and interiors inspired by the proportions and refinement of Mayfair’s grand mansions, the hotel aims to blend heritage with modern comfort in one of London’s most characterful neighbourhoods.
The exact October opening date will be confirmed soon, but the preview suggests a hotel and a restaurant ready to bring a little charm, a little nostalgia and a lot of personality to Shepherd Market. If Fayre is anything to go by, guests can expect a warm welcome, a touch of whimsy and a menu that feels both comforting and quietly indulgent.
