Back by popular demand, the noughties institution Gilgamesh has officially reopened its hallowed doors in Covent Garden with a reincarnation of the legendary Camden site. Rest assured that the same spirit, experiential theatre and unique sense of fun of the original Gilgamesh remains. Gilgamesh London has always been more than a restaurant, a tongue-in-cheek drinking, dining, and late-night concept encompassing the legend of Babylon. Gilgamesh isn’t just a vibe dining venue, the food is very serious and very delicious.
Atmosphere Fit for a King
This long-awaited rebirth sees Gilgamesh’s signature interiors re-imagined for a new generation. Guests step into an arresting yet intimate 160-cover space, offering an unrivalled feast for the senses at every turn. Spanning three floors and inspired by ancient mythology seamlessly merged with contemporary design, the original Gilgamesh DNA remains, whilst given a modern twist.
A Lush Backdrop of Luxury
Upon entering the ground floor lounge bar, ascend to Zion, a seductive mezzanine space filled with lush foliage against a copper-hued backdrop, or descend into the decadent gold-hued Babylon to continue a late-night journey that legends are made of. With new life being breathed into the Mesopotamian-inspired space, courtesy of design company Studio Minerva, meticulously detailed hand-carved bronze work and opulent dark woods vividly narrate the epic tale of Gilgamesh.
The Garden of Babylon
Alongside an expansive and diverse cocktail list, the à la carte bar and food menu embraces flavours from China, Japan, and Southeast Asia. Designed for sharing and sitting alongside a selection of sushi, sashimi, and nigiri, are hero dishes including Grilled Dover Sole with Basil, a Japanese Pizza with Tuna Truffle Mizuma and the returning famed Crispy Duck, Watermelon and Cashew Nut Salad, whilst the Robata grill offers fire grilled Black Angus Ribeye, Lamb Chops and Aubergine Miso.
Meticulously curated by dedicated chefs, each seasonal menu features premium ingredients sourced from trusted suppliers, catering to bold, delicate, or adventurous palates. This culinary odyssey inspired by the tale itself expands its culinary canon, with signature dishes such as Mekong Lemongrass Chicken, Ribeye Bulgogi with Chive Mash, and Lamb Chops with Wasabi Seasoning. Signature dishes centred around the sea are also available, including Grilled Jumbo Tiger Prawn with XO sauce and Miso Chilean Seabass. Baskets are also on hand with Chive & Lotus Dumplings, King Prawn Har Gau, Chicken Siu Mai.
The food at Gilgamesh is solid, consistent and authentic. That crispy duck and watermelon salad just works and is kissed with an umami sauce with hints of soy. A beef Rendang with roti is presented elegantly with the most moreish roti to mop up that lush sauce. A miso Chilean seabass was so buttery and delicate that it could have been a piece of black cod.
A Flow of Wine and Cocktails
Pair delectable dishes with the perfect refreshment with an array of Sommelier’s hand- picked wine list. Gilgamesh’s signature cocktails do not disappoint either, staying on theme with names of the prominent characters within the epic, such as Uruk, made up of Hendrix Gin, Elderflower, Cucumber, Mint, Lime, Soda. Sake offerings also elevated the offers of Japanese flavours Gilgamesh boasts, including Asahi Shuzo Dassai 39 and Sake cocktails such as Anunnaki, made up of Lychee and Rose Liqueur infused with our dry Sake Hakkaisan Junmai Daiginjo.
Return to the Epic
Gilgamesh London was formerly renowned for its epic events and VIP clientele and its new incarnation will be looking not only to repeat but to build on its celebrated history. Having always been ahead of its game – it created the ultimate Instagrammable restaurant before the social media platform had even launched! A testament to the concept.
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All imagery courtesy of Gilgamesh London.