Jason Atherton opens first theatre bar

Chef Jason Atherton and The Social Company have announced the launch of Pavlova’s located within the Victoria Palace Theatre. The 20-cover bar will be the first theatre bar by Atherton and will be in partnership with the theatre’s owner, Sir Cameron Mackintosh. Named after the Russian ballerina whose statue stands on top of the theatre, Pavlova’s will be a hub for theatregoers, and those living and working locally. Atherton said: “I’m delighted to be launching Pavlova’s in Victoria’s bustling theatre district in partnership with Sir Cameron Mackintosh. The Victoria Palace Theatre is a stunning building and we’re honoured to now be a part of its longstanding history.” The drinks list has been curated by the group’s bar manager, Jay Doy, and will have a strong gin focus with a hidden gin cupboard storing over 38 varieties from around the world. The signature cocktail, ‘The Dying Swan’ (Gin, elderflower, citrus, cucumber and herbs, £9), has been named after Anna Pavlova’s fabled dance and features a music box that opens to reveal a rotating ballerina and the cocktail. Other drinks will include; ‘Queens Park Swizzle’ (Gold rum, mint, citrus, soda and bitters, £9.50); ‘Can’t Fix, Won’t Fix’ (Mescal, Chartreuse, tequila, pineapple, and citrus, £10) as well as ‘Garden Negroni’ (Rose gin, rhubarb, bitters and sweet vermouth, £10). There will also be a range of wine, draft beers and spirits available. The bar will also be open throughout the day with a menu which includes croissants, coffees, a selection of snacks, speciality paninis, charcuterie and cheeses. Sir Cameron Mackintosh, owner of The Victoria Palace Theatre, added: “When I restored and extended the Victoria Palace Theatre, I planned to open part of the building as a bar available to the general public, not just theatregoers. I wanted to partner with one of London's most brilliant restaurateurs - and to my mind Jason Atherton is top of the bill, so I was thrilled when Jason enthusiastically agreed to create Pavlova's.” The interior design has been led by Aedas and at Delfont Mackintosh to create a “refined yet relaxed space with modern touches”. Pavlova’s will incorporate the style of the ballerina with chandeliers, duck egg blue seating, and polished hardwood floors. Pavlova’s opens on Friday 21 June.