You know that feeling when you walk into a place and it just feels... correct? That’s the vibe at The Delaunay. It’s sitting right there on the corner of Aldwych and Drury Lane, a massive, gleaming beacon of Old World European charm that somehow doesn’t feel like a museum. Honestly, if you’ve spent any time in London’s West End, you’ve probably walked past those huge windows and wondered if it’s as fancy as it looks.
It is. But it’s also surprisingly chill if you know how to navigate it.
The Delaunay Aldwych London isn’t just a restaurant. It’s a machine. A very polished, marble-clad, brass-trimmed machine run by the legendary Corbin & King (now under the Wolseley Hospitality Group umbrella). It was designed by David Collins Studio to mimic the grand cafes of Central Europe—think Vienna or Prague in the 1920s. But it’s in London. And it works.
The Morning Rush and the Art of the Power Breakfast
Most people come here for breakfast. Why? Because breakfast at The Delaunay is a tactical maneuver. You’ll see agents from nearby talent agencies, lawyers from the Temple, and journalists from the various media houses all tucked into those dark green leather booths. The acoustics are weirdly perfect. Even when the room is packed, you can have a private conversation without the person at the next table hearing your secrets.
The menu is a beast. You can go full Viennese with a Kaffee und Kuchen vibe, or stay strictly British. Their scrambled eggs are legendary. Not the rubbery stuff you get at a hotel buffet, but creamy, rich, and probably 50% butter.
If you’re feeling bold, get the Berner Würstel. It’s a smoked frankfurter stuffed with cheese and wrapped in bacon. Is it healthy? No. Is it the best thing you’ll eat all week? Probably. It’s that mix of high-end service and unapologetic, heavy European comfort food that makes The Delaunay Aldwych London stand out from the sea of avocado toast spots popping up everywhere else.
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The Atmosphere: Grandeur Without the Snobbery
Walking in, you’re greeted by a clock that looks like it belongs in a 19th-century train station. The floors are black and white marble. The walls are dark wood. It feels expensive. Yet, the staff doesn't look down their noses at you if you aren't wearing a suit. I’ve seen people in full black-tie attire for a pre-theater dinner sitting right next to a tourist in a hoodie and trainers. Nobody cares.
That’s the magic of a Grand Cafe.
It’s democratic. Or at least, as democratic as a high-end Aldwych eatery can be. The service is "old school." Waiters move with a specific kind of urgency. They aren't your friends; they are professionals. They know when to refill your coffee and when to leave you alone to finish your pitch deck.
What to Order When You’re Bored of the Usual
If you’ve been here ten times, the schnitzel is the default move. And look, the Wiener Schnitzel is great. It’s huge. It’s thin. It’s crispy. But if you want to actually explore the menu, look at the Choucroute Royale. It’s a massive plate of sauerkraut, sausages, and pork belly. It’s a commitment. You probably shouldn’t plan on doing much work after eating it.
Then there’s the Bircher muesli. For some reason, The Delaunay makes it better than anyone else. It’s cold, it’s refreshing, and it makes you feel like you’ve made a healthy choice before you inevitably order a side of pastries.
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Location, Location, Location
Let’s talk geography for a second. The Delaunay Aldwych London is perfectly positioned. You’re a stone’s throw from the Royal Opera House. You’re right near Somerset House. If you’re seeing a show at the Novello or the Aldwych Theatre, this is the inevitable "pre-theater" spot.
Because of this, the 5:00 PM to 6:30 PM window is chaotic. It’s a whirlwind of people trying to eat three courses in 45 minutes before the curtain goes up. If you want a relaxed meal, avoid this window. Come at 8:00 PM instead. The lights get lower, the room gets sexier, and the pace slows down to a crawl.
The Counter: The Secret Weapon
Most people don't realize there’s a whole separate section called The Delaunay Counter. It has its own entrance. It’s much more casual—kinda like a high-end deli. If the main restaurant is fully booked (which happens a lot), you can usually snag a spot here for a quick coffee or a salt beef sandwich.
The cakes here? Ridiculous. The Sachertorte is dense and dark, exactly how it’s served at Hotel Sacher in Vienna. It’s a great hack if you want the Delaunay experience without the formal sit-down drama.
Navigating the Wine List and Beyond
The wine list is heavily weighted toward Central Europe. You’ll find some incredible Rieslings and Grüner Veltliners that you won’t see on many other London menus. Don’t be afraid of the Austrian reds either. A Blaufränkisch with the schnitzel is a game-changer.
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Prices are what you’d expect for the area. It’s not cheap, but it’s not "I need a second mortgage" expensive. You’re paying for the room, the service, and the fact that you’re sitting in one of the most beautiful dining rooms in the city.
Real Talk: The Noise and the Crowd
Is it perfect? Nothing is. During peak lunch hours, it can get loud. Like, "shouting over your soup" loud. If you’re looking for a quiet, romantic corner to propose, this probably isn't the spot. It’s a social hub. It’s buzzy.
Also, getting a booth is the ultimate goal. If you get stuck at one of the smaller tables in the middle of the floor, you might feel a bit exposed. Always ask for a booth when you book. They might say no, but it’s worth the ask.
Practical Steps for Your Visit
If you're planning to head to The Delaunay Aldwych London, don't just wing it. This place stays busy for a reason. Here is how to actually do it right:
- Book ahead for breakfast. Seriously. You think a Tuesday morning at 8:30 AM will be empty? It won't be. Use their online system at least a few days out.
- The "Pre-Theater" Menu is a steal. If you are on a budget but want the experience, check their set menus. They usually run between 5 PM and 6:30 PM and again late at night.
- Dress the part, or don't. Smart casual is the safest bet. You'll see everything from jeans to tuxedos, but a nice blazer or a clean sweater never hurts.
- Don't skip the bread. The bread basket is actually worth the carbs.
- Try the Hot Chocolate. It’s thick, rich, and comes with a side of whipped cream that’s basically a meal in itself.
The Delaunay remains a staple because it doesn’t try to be trendy. It’s not chasing TikTok filters or "Instagrammable" walls. It’s just a grand, well-run restaurant that serves solid food in a stunning room. In a city that changes every five minutes, there’s something really comforting about that.
Stop by next time you're near Covent Garden. Even if it's just for a coffee and a pastry at the counter, it's a slice of London life you shouldn't miss. Check the daily specials on the chalkboard near the entrance; they often feature seasonal game or specific regional German dishes that aren't on the standard printed menu. If the venison is on, get it.