Giraffe grows up

The Giraffe chain has launched the first of its new Bar & Grill venues, described as a “grown-up” addition to the group.

The two storey site on Frith Street in London’s Soho opened last weekend, offering a late licence until 1am from Thursday until Saturday, a separate lounge bar and private dining room seating up to 80 guests.

The menu has also been tweaked to reflect its more adult market. The Robata grill will serve up Adobo marinated sirloin steak, West Devon lamb rump, beef short ribs with soy honey and black pepper and a selection of what the chain calls “tapas style world skewers”.

Giraffe Bar & Grill also offers a late night menu, served until midnight, which includes dishes such as pimento macaroni cheese and cobb chicken sandwiches.

An expanded wine list features over 36 wines by the glass, as well as wine flights. The new format will keep special deals familiar from the chain’s existing venues, “Bar Buddies”, which offers 50% off selected drinks every day between 5pm and 7pm, and “Feel Good”, which allows customers to order two courses for £9.95 after 5pm.

In keeping with its more sophisticated dining offer, Giraffe’s trademark orange logo has been replaced with a more subtle backlit metal sign. Other design features include a lighting installation made from recycled pickle jars and doors opening out onto the street to allow summertime alfresco dining.

Giraffe also plans to use its Bar & Grill as a venue for regular entertainment, from comedy nights to DJs and live music. Its private Red Room can be hired for corporate events and private parties.

Giraffe Bar & Grill marks the 44th site for the company, whose portfolio includes five airport franchises and Guerilla Burgers. There are plans to open a further five restaurants by the end of 2011.

Gabriel Savage, 14.06.2011