Peyton and Byrne has today announced the opening of the new National Café at the National Gallery. The National Café has undergone a major programme of renovation and will be open again to the public from 6th March.
This is the first significant initiative following Sodexo’s acquisition of Peyton and Byrne in October 2016, bringing together Sodexo’s operational and project management expertise with Peyton and Byrne’s food and hospitality credentials. This relationship aims to accelerate Sodexo’s growth in the visitor attraction market and strengthen its presence in the capital, while supporting Peyton and Byrne’s growth in the cultural sector. The combined expertise of both companies will operate the food and drink outlets at some of London’s most high-profile visitor attractions, including the Royal Academy of Arts and the IWM (Imperial War Museum) London.
The National Café, which was closed for just under two months, has been redesigned by Paris-based Belgian designer Ramy Fischler, founder of RF Studios in Paris and recently awarded the Order of Arts and Letters by the Department of Culture and Communication in France. The refurbishment saw a full refit of the restaurant to update and modernise the three main areas – the restaurant, the Trafalgar Room, and the Grab & Go area – into a stunning space, transforming the dining experience and providing new creative potential for events.
Chris Bray, CEO Sports & Leisure, Sodexo UK & Ireland, said “The launch of the new National Café shows how our Peyton and Byrne acquisition will benefit clients at London’s top cultural destinations. We have combined Sodexo’s considerable infrastructure and support network with Peyton and Byrne’s pioneering approach. This translates into new creative concepts such as the National Café, improving the visitor experience for a wider group of customers.
Siobhan Peyton, CEO Peyton and Byrne, said “The National Café is an important restaurant in the Peyton and Byrne portfolio, so both Oliver and I are thrilled to announce its reopening this month after necessary modernisation, which has been fully supported and made possible by Sodexo. Whether visiting an exhibition at the National Gallery, looking to enjoy a pre-theatre menu or holding a private event, the new National Café provides a stunning setting.”
