The much-loved Regency Cafe in Westminster has reopened under new ownership, the Standard has learned.
The business property adviser Christie & Co said the sale of the leasehold was completed on Tuesday, marking an “exciting new chapter” for the cafe.
The cafe has been bought by Turkish cafe operators Fevzi and Zafer Gungor, who have shared their plans for the site with the Standard.
The cafe was put up for sale late last year when owners Antonio Perotti and Gino Schiavetta listed the business for £170,000 through Christie & Co.
Sales agent David Wilson told the Standard that interest was immediate, though it has taken over half a year for the cafe to reopen.
At the time, there were fears the Regency Cafe would be lost, possibly sold to developers, but landlords Westminster Council promised to ensure the type of business — a traditional London greasy spoon — would be maintained.
“The Regency Café has been a well loved institution by the local community for over 40 years, and has become an iconic location to visit having been featured in various TV programmes and films such as Layer Cake,” said Councillor David Boothroyd, cabinet member for finance and corporate property.
“To be clear, we won’t allow the site to be developed into something different as we want to preserve the spirit and heritage this iconic café brings, which aligns with the current owners wishes.”
For now, it’s business as normal at the cafe, with the same written menu, the same low prices, and the same Art Deco-inspired interiors.
“The breakfast hasn’t changed, the menu is still in the old handwriting,” said a local.
The Regency Cafe opened in 1946 and has become an institution in London. It is one of the city’s best-known traditional cafes, serving cooked breakfasts, spaghetti bolognese and chicken curry.
A beloved fixture of London’s dining scene since 1946, the Regency has become renowned for its traditional British breakfasts, distinctive Art Deco interior, and appearances in numerous film and television productions including Layer Cake, Pride and Rocketman, having held a special place in the hearts of locals and visitors alike for many years.
17-19 Regency Street, SW1P 4BY, regencycafe.has.restaurant
