Coq d’Argent, a long-standing fixture in the City of London’s fine dining scene, is preparing for a significant relocation. The French restaurant, known for its Burgundian cuisine and popular terrace, will move from its current home at No.1 Poultry to a new riverside location at One Millennium Bridge. This marks the end of a 28-year tenure at the iconic No.1 Poultry building, with the move expected to be finalised in January 2027.
The new premises at One Millennium Bridge promise an enhanced experience for diners. Plans include the development of expansive rooftop gardens, designed by Chelsea gold medallist Andy Sturgeon, offering dramatic views of both the River Thames and St Paul's Cathedral. Evolv Collection, the restaurant's owner, describes the new setting as "even more dramatic" than the original, aiming to maintain and elevate the restaurant's reputation for exceptional ambiance.
The impetus for Coq d’Argent's move stems from the impending extensive redevelopment of No.1 Poultry. This necessitates the restaurant seeking new premises, leading to the strategic choice of One Millennium Bridge. Martin Williams, CEO of Evolv Collection, emphasised the restaurant’s deep connection to the City, stating that Coq d’Argent is "woven into the fabric of the City" and that its next home needed to be equally extraordinary.
This relocation is part of a wider transformation within the Square Mile's high-end restaurant landscape. Last week, news broke of restaurant tycoon Richard Caring's advanced discussions to acquire 1 Lombard Street, marking his return to the restaurant business after a substantial sale of his previous empire. Such shifts indicate a dynamic period for hospitality establishments catering to City workers and businesses.
The continuity of established venues like Coq d’Argent, albeit in new locations, reflects the resilience and evolving nature of London's business districts. For UK businesses, particularly those in the hospitality sector, adapting to urban redevelopment and maintaining a strong brand presence is crucial for sustained success. The investment in a new, premium location with enhanced features underscores confidence in the long-term demand for high-quality dining experiences within the capital.