Curzon Street

Rich in history

Curzon Street has a rich history that reflects the evolution of Mayfair from a rural area into one of London's most prestigious neighbourhoods. The street was developed in the late 17th and early 18th centuries as part of the grand urban expansion driven by the wealthy aristocracy. It was named after George Howe, the 3rd Viscount Howe, whose family owned large estates in the area. Throughout the centuries, Curzon Street became synonymous with high society, home to numerous aristocrats, politicians, and influential figures. One of its most famous residents was Prime Minister Benjamin Disraeli, who lived there during the mid-19th century. The street was also known for its literary connections, with the novelist and playwright Oscar Wilde frequently visiting friends and socializing in the area.

Curzon Street has also been associated with the world of diplomacy, with several embassies and diplomatic residences located there. Its elegant townhouses and luxurious apartments have made it a desirable address for the elite, contributing to its enduring reputation as one of London's most prestigious streets. In popular culture, Curzon Street has also appeared in various films, books, and TV shows, often symbolizing the opulence and exclusivity of Mayfair. Despite the modern changes in London, Curzon Street retains its historical charm and continues to be a significant part of the city's cultural and social fabric.

Things to do in Curzon Street 

Curzon Street is perfectly situated in bustling Mayfair, offering visitors a wealth of attractions and activities within easy walking distance. Whether it’s local sightseeing, famous London green spaces, art galleries or restaurants near Curzon Street, there’s certainly something for everyone. 

1. Green Park: Just a short stroll from Curzon Street, Green Park offers a serene escape from the city’s hustle and bustle. This royal park is perfect for a leisurely walk, picnic, or simply relaxing on one of the park benches. It's also a great starting point for a walk to Buckingham Palace. 

2. Shepherd Market: Tucked away behind Curzon Street, Shepherd Market is a charming, small village-like enclave filled with boutique shops, galleries, and cafes. The area has a bohemian past and today is a lovely spot to explore, with its winding lanes and hidden gems.

3. Royal Academy of Arts: Located nearby on Piccadilly, the Royal Academy of Arts is one of London’s foremost art institutions. Visitors can enjoy world-class exhibitions, art collections, and even take part in workshops or events. The historic building itself is worth a visit. 

4. Bond Street: Famous for luxury shopping, Bond Street is just a short walk from Curzon Street. Here, you'll find flagship stores for top designers, including Chanel, Louis Vuitton, and Tiffany & Co., along with art galleries and high-end jewellers. 

5. Hyde Park: A bit further west, Hyde Park offers a vast green space for various outdoor activities. You can rent a boat on the Serpentine, visit the Serpentine Galleries, or simply enjoy a walk through the beautiful gardens.

6. Grosvenor Square: This large garden square, not far from Curzon Street, is one of London’s most iconic public spaces. It is surrounded by embassies, including the former U.S. Embassy, and offers a peaceful place to sit and reflect.

7. The Wallace Collection: A bit further afield but worth the visit, The Wallace Collection is a national museum in a historic townhouse. It houses an impressive collection of fine and decorative arts, including works by Old Masters, armour, and furniture. 

8. Berkeley Square: Known for its historic plane trees and elegant surroundings, Berkeley Square is a short walk from Curzon Street. It's a great place to relax or explore the nearby high-end restaurants and art galleries. 

9. Piccadilly: The famous thoroughfare of Piccadilly is nearby and offers attractions like the iconic Ritz Hotel, Fortnum & Mason for luxury groceries and gifts, and Hatchards, London’s oldest bookstore. 

10. Theatre and Nightlife in Soho: Just a short walk from Mayfair, Soho offers a vibrant mix of theatres, bars, and restaurants. Catch a West End show or explore the nightlife in one of London’s most dynamic areas.

Restaurants near Curzon Street

With so much to explore around Curzon Street, from its historical landmarks to its luxurious shopping destinations, it's essential not to overlook the culinary delights that the area has to offer. Among these, Corrigan's Mayfair stands out as a true gem, offering the finest of land, sea and air. Opened in 2008 by the celebrated Chef Richard Corrigan, Corrigan’s Mayfair quickly became a cornerstone of London's fine dining scene, bringing with it Chef Corrigan's passion for seasonality and his deep-rooted connection to his rural Irish upbringing.

Corrigan's Mayfair embodies Chef Corrigan's philosophy of letting the natural rhythms of the seasons dictate the menu. This approach ensures that every dish is crafted with the freshest ingredients available, resulting in flavours that are both vibrant and true to their origins. The restaurant’s commitment to excellence was recognised early on when it was awarded London Restaurant of the Year by the Evening Standard in its first year. Since then, Corrigan’s Mayfair has continued to earn accolades, including holding three AA Rosettes and securing a spot as one of the highest new entries in the National Restaurant Awards.

As such, the menu at Corrigan's Mayfair is a celebration of British and Irish culinary traditions, reimagined through Chef Corrigan's innovative lens. Diners can expect a range of dishes that reflect the finest of these cuisines, such as the rich and velvety Chicken Liver and Foie Gras Terrine, or the refreshing Classic Tomato Gazpacho, perfect for a light start to a meal. For mains, options like the Roasted Guinea Fowl or the Hampshire Fallow Deer paired with Cocoa, Fig, and Crapaudine Beetroot showcase the chef’s ability to marry robust, earthy flavours with delicate nuances. To finish, desserts like the Apple Tarte Fine served with Hazelnut and Vanilla Ice Cream provide a satisfying and elegant conclusion to the dining experience.

To pair with your dish, the bar at Corrgian’s Mayfair is as meticulously curated as the menu. Chef Richard Corrigan understands that a truly memorable dining experience is not just about what’s on the plate but also what’s in the glass. This philosophy is reflected in the restaurant’s extensive drinks offerings, designed to complement and elevate the flavours of the dishes served. For cocktail enthusiasts, classics like the Negroni Chinato, a sophisticated twist on the traditional Negroni with the addition of Chinato for a deeper, more complex flavour profile, or the French 75, a timeless blend of gin, champagne, lemon juice, and sugar, offer the perfect prelude to your meal. For those who prefer bubbly, the champagne selection is second to none, featuring prestigious labels like Paul Déthune Ambonnay Grand Cru and Ruinart Blanc de Blancs. These champagnes, known for their elegance and finesse, are ideal for toasting a special occasion or simply indulging in a luxurious start to your meal.

Wine lovers will find themselves spoiled for choice with a fantastic range of red, white, rosé, and dessert wines that span the globe. Whether you’re in the mood for a full-bodied Bordeaux, a crisp Chablis, or a delicate Pinot Noir, the wine list at Corrigan’s has been carefully curated to offer something for every palate and to perfectly pair with the seasonally inspired dishes on the menu. Spirits enthusiasts, too, will find much to admire. The bar boasts a vast selection of spirits, with a particularly impressive range of whiskey personally chosen by Chef Corrigan himself. This collection features some of the finest single malts and blends from Scotland, Ireland, and beyond. In addition to whiskey, there’s an extensive assortment of vodka, cognac, gin, rum, and more, ensuring that whatever your preference, there’s a perfect pour waiting for you.

Whether you're indulging in an à la carte dinner, a leisurely lunch, or a special private dining event, each meal at Corrigan's is crafted with precision and care. The restaurant's ability to blend the traditional with the contemporary, all while maintaining an unwavering commitment to quality and seasonality, makes it a must visit for anyone in the Mayfair area. So, as you explore the many sights and sounds around Curzon Street, be sure to make time for an unforgettable dining experience at Corrigan's Mayfair.