This winter Augustus Harris arrives in Covent Garden. Inspired by the bàcari of Venice, it will serve cicheti and other bar snacks alongside wine and cocktails in the evening, and sell wine and Italian produce during the day. Named after Sir Augustus Harris, the 19th Century manager of the Drury Lane Theatre, the small and intimate bàcaro looks set to be an exciting addition to Covent Garden’s ever-increasing food scene.
Set over two floors and with 35 covers, a curved copper bar will display the cicheti available that day, and wooden shelves will be laden with olive oil, wine, pasta, biscotti and other Italian dry goods, all available to take home. Guests can sit at the bar or by the large windows overlooking Catherine Street and watch the world pass by or head downstairs where the walls are clad with walnut and large bronze mirrors.
Augustus Harris will offer a concise all-Italian wine list and a range of classic cocktails including; Americanos, Negronis, Bellinis and, of course, the Spritz. Guests can enjoy a selection of crostini such as; Capocollo with Artichoke, Porcetta with Taleggio and Herbs and Mackerel with Pickled Red Onion. Simple bar snacks will also be available, including: Fennel, Radish and Orange Salad, Anchovy and Butter Soldiers and Stracciatella Cheese.
Sir Augustus Harris, whose statue stands directly opposite, was considered the father of modern Pantomime and much loved for his lavish productions. His penchant for good food and drink led to him being known as one of the great bon vivants of the time.
Founder Charles McDermott sums its up: I’ve always been drawn to Venice and especially the bàcari they don’t take themselves too seriously and have a great simple and honest attitude to food and wine. I wanted to create a place where you could enjoy beautiful ingredients over a drink and be drawn into the bàcaro experience.”
Augustus Harris
33 Catherine Street
London, WC2B 5JT
Website:www.augustusharris.com
Enquiries: info@augustusharris.com
Twitter: @augustus_harris
Instagram: @augustus_harris
Opening Times
Monday-Thursday: Shop – 12pm – 1130pm | Serving drinks and food: 5pm – 1130pm
Friday-Saturday: Shop – 12pm – 1130pm | Serving drinks and food: 12pm – Midnight