Penelope’s, the celebrated restaurant located within the vibrant AMANO Covent Garden hotel, has been bestowed with the prestigious title of Best Luxury Restaurant at the 6th Annual British Restaurant Awards. The awards ceremony, held on August 28th at The Crown London Hotel, spotlighted the pinnacle of the UK’s culinary scene, and Penelope’s emerged as a dominant force in London’s luxurious dining landscape.
Nestled within the lively Hotel AMANO Covent Garden, the first UK outpost of Berlin’s esteemed AMANO Group, Penelope’s delivers a distinct culinary journey that harmoniously blends bold Spanish and Middle Eastern flavors. Under the expert guidance of Executive Chef Fez Ozalgan, the menu draws inspiration from the Co-Founder’s heritage, weaving together influences from southern Spain and Tel Aviv to create dishes brimming with innovation and passion.
Guests can revel in the cozy intimacy of a booth for a romantic dinner or share joyous moments with friends, all while basking in the restaurant’s inviting and friendly ambiance. Every Friday and Saturday, Penelope’s transforms into a vibrant party venue, hosting the iconic Isramani: an energetic dinner celebration inspired by Berlin’s nightlife. This event seamlessly combines the excitement of sparklers, flowing drinks, and dancing, creating a unique blend of gourmet dining with the signature AMANO vibe, making for an unforgettable experience.
“We’re incredibly honored to have Penelope’s recognized as the Best Luxury Restaurant at this year’s British Restaurant Awards,” remarked Ariel Schiff, Founder of AMANO Group. “Our vision for Penelope’s was to create a space where guests could enjoy exceptional food with spirited energy, bringing together the warmth of Mediterranean hospitality with a modern, fun atmosphere. This award is a testament to the hard work and creativity of our entire team, especially Executive Chef Fez Ozalgan, who has brought our vision to life with such passion and flair. We’re excited to continue delivering unforgettable dining experiences!”
Penelope’s recently welcomed Taylor Coulson as the new Restaurant Manager, and the team has been meticulously elevating the experience with exceptional service and a vibrant atmosphere. Guests have the option to immerse themselves in the culinary action by observing the talented team at work in the open kitchen or opt for a more intimate setting in the private dining room, which can comfortably accommodate up to 18 guests for special occasions.
The menu is designed for sharing and showcases standout dishes such as the refreshingly vibrant Seabream Tartare with gazpacho, caviar, and habanero, and the indulgent Baklava Cheesecake with pistachio and honey. For those seeking heartier fare, options like the 800g Beef Short Rib with fermented hot sauce or the Israeli-style paella, crafted with Freekeh and topped with octopus and squid ink, are sure to satisfy the most discerning palates.
For a deeper dive into the culinary experience, Penelope’s offers the Fez Ozalgan Tasting Menu. Priced at £110 per person and available on select evenings at 7:00 PM, this experience includes a complimentary cocktail or glass of bubbly, a specially curated tasting menu, and a live chef demonstration, providing guests with an intimate glimpse into Chef Fez’s creative process.
The tasting menu is served in the elegantly designed restaurant, featuring mood lighting, plush velvet and leather decor, and chandeliers adorned with tassels and feather motifs, creating an atmosphere that feels as luxurious and captivating as a theatrical production. The British Restaurant Awards are among the most esteemed honors in the culinary world, allowing the public to nominate and vote for their favorite dining spots across the UK. This year’s awards were particularly significant, celebrating their 6th anniversary, and Penelope’s win reaffirms its status as one of London’s premier luxury dining destinations.
