Register to get 5 free articles
Reveal the article below by registering for our email newsletter.
Want unlimited access? View Plans
Already have an account? Sign in
Des Gunewardena, the co-founder and former CEO of restaurant group D&D London, has announced he has signed an agreement with The Ardent Companies UK to open a new flagship restaurant, bar and event space at The Royal Exchange.
The venture will be Gunewardena’s first project since his departure from D&D and will be a luxury destination in the City of London.
Gunewardena has taken 6,500 sq ft of space on a new 15-year lease, with the new venture occupying the North, South and East mezzanines of the main central courtyard, together with a newly-created outdoor terrace at the front of the building.
Details of food, drink and design concepts are to be announced closer to the venue’s planned opening in May 2024. The venue will also feature live music and entertainment.
The Royal Exchange offers a range of high-end boutiques – including Tiffany and Co, Hermès, Montblanc and Omega – alongside dining options such as The Libertine and the Fortnum and Mason bar and restaurant.
Gunewardena said: “I have always loved the Royal Exchange since my first involvement with the building back in my Conran days. Ardent has some imaginative proposals for evolving what is already a very successful luxury retail and restaurant offer, and I am excited to be part of those plans.”
Andrew Hilston, MD of The Ardent Companies UK, added: “We are hugely excited to welcome Des to The Royal Exchange, and can’t wait to see his concepts come to life.
“Alongside existing eateries, including The Libertine and The Fortnum and Mason bar and restaurant, Des’ arrival will further burnish The Royal Exchange’s reputation as one of The City’s best places for dining and socialising.”
