Shaftesbury Capital, a prominent real estate investment trust focusing on dynamic central London locations, has announced a significant addition to the flourishing food and beverage landscape of Covent Garden. The esteemed Italian restaurant brand, Harry’s, founded and owned by renowned restaurateur Richard Caring, is slated to open a flagship London site within the vibrant district.
A Prime Location Secured
The new Harry’s establishment will occupy a strategically important position at 11-12 Russell Street, placing it at the heart of the bustling Covent Garden activity. The site encompasses approximately 3,100 sq ft, providing a substantial footprint for the brand’s signature dining experience. A key feature highlighted by Shaftesbury Capital is the inclusion of a large terrace situated directly on the Piazza, designed to facilitate extensive al fresco dining. This outdoor seating component is particularly coveted in central London, offering diners the opportunity to experience the unique atmosphere of the Covent Garden Piazza while enjoying their meal.
Anticipating the Culinary Offerings
Harry’s is known for its commitment to delivering authentic Italian cuisine, and the new Covent Garden flagship is expected to uphold this tradition. The menu is anticipated to feature a range of classic Italian dishes, including the brand’s celebrated Harry’s Taglioni. Beyond the food, the restaurant will also offer a comprehensive beverage program, including a selection of cocktails and an extensive wine list, curated to complement the culinary experience. The opening is currently anticipated to occur this winter, signalling that construction and preparation are progressing towards a late 2024 or early 2025 launch.
Strategic Development in Covent Garden
The arrival of Harry’s underscores the ongoing strategic development and enhancement of Covent Garden by Shaftesbury Capital. The area has been progressively transformed into a premier destination for retail, leisure, and particularly, dining. This new opening follows a series of recent and successful food and beverage announcements within the district, contributing to a diverse and high-quality culinary ecosystem. Among these recent additions is ADOH! [7], which exemplifies the calibre and variety of operators now choosing Covent Garden for significant London presence. Shaftesbury Capital’s approach focuses on attracting leading national and international brands that resonate with Covent Garden’s discerning audience and contribute to its dynamic atmosphere.
Industry Enthusiasm
The announcement has been met with positive sentiment from stakeholders. Laura Mills, Managing Director of The Ivy Group, which is also part of Richard Caring’s Caprice Holdings portfolio and operates several successful venues, expressed considerable excitement about bringing Harry’s to Covent Garden. Her commentary highlights the strategic importance of this location for the brand’s expansion within London and signals confidence in its potential to thrive amidst the area’s competitive, yet vibrant, dining scene. The synergy between Harry’s established reputation for quality Italian dining and Covent Garden’s status as a global destination is seen as a potent combination.
Looking Ahead
The forthcoming opening of Harry’s at 11-12 Russell Street represents more than just the launch of a new restaurant; it signifies a continued investment in and elevation of Covent Garden as a key player in London’s luxury and lifestyle offering. As the anticipated winter opening approaches, the addition of Harry’s flagship Italian restaurant is set to further enhance the area’s appeal to both London residents and international visitors seeking high-quality dining experiences in one of the city’s most iconic locations. The arrival of a brand with the heritage and backing of Richard Caring is a testament to the enduring allure and growing stature of Covent Garden under Shaftesbury Capital’s stewardship.
