News that the famous Regency Cafe in Westminster has been sold was shared with the Standard on Tuesday as property agents Christie & Co. announced a sale had gone through.
The cafe was open and trading as normal as of July 22 and new owners Fevzi and Zafer Gungor said they were committed to “preserving the cafe’s enduring legacy while exploring opportunities for future growth”.
Both businessmen have launched numerous food and drink businesses in London over the years, though none have been as high-profile as this.
Fevzi mentioned he would be exploring possible expansion possibilities, including co-branded sauces and expansion overseas, including Dubai.
“I’m honoured to take over such a historic and much-loved institution,” he said. “As someone born in Turkey and raised in White City, my journey started humbly, delivering newspapers at 13 before school, and I’ve never looked back.
“Over the years, I’ve launched over 50 successful eateries across the city, but taking the reins at Regency Cafe is truly special.
“My aim isn’t to change what people already love about Regency Cafe, but to enhance it, extending opening hours, refreshing equipment, strengthening our social media presence and introducing merchandise that captures the spirit of this iconic spot.
“We’re also exploring partnerships with major British brands for co-branded sauces, beans, and more. We may look at expanding the kitchen to cater for halal dining, reflecting the diverse communities and tourists we serve, including many from the Arab Peninsula.”
Fevzi also said he will be looking into taking the Regency name to “key global cities”, including Amsterdam, Berlin, Istanbul, and Dubai.
“But our immediate focus is on Regency Street,” he added. “We want to ensure it continues to be a place where locals and visitors alike can enjoy one of London’s best breakfasts.”
The Regency Cafe opened in 1946 and has been under the stewardship of Italian families until now.
It was most recently run by Claudia Perotti and Marco Schiavetta, who decided to call time on the business there late last year.
Perotti, who took on the cafe from her father Tony in 1994, worked with Christie & Co. property agent David Wilson on the sale, ending a 39-year tenure.
In that time, the Regency appeared in numerous music videos and movies, including Layer Cake, Rocketman and Brighton Rock.
Wilson told the Standard: “We are delighted to announce the leasehold sale of the Regency Café.
“This iconic café generated significant interest on the market, selling for a best-and-final offer following two highly attended viewing days.
“This sale, and the interest in generated, demonstrates just how strong the demand is for well-established hospitality businesses in London.”
The Regency Café leasehold was sold at an undisclosed price.
17-19 Regency Street, SW1P 4BY, regencycafe.has.restaurant
