Benugo to open wine bar and café at London Coliseum

The move is part of plans by English National Opera (ENO) to open up the West End theatre and give more people a chance to enjoy theatre architect Frank Matcham's Grade II listed building. 

Benugo, which already runs The American Bar Restaurant at the venue and is funding the first phase of the project, will work with architect Robin Snell and Partners to create the new drinking and dining space. 

ENO chief executive Cressida Pollock said: “Artistic Director John Berry last year outlined his vision to open up the Coliseum and I’m delighted we’ve taken this project forward alongside our catering partner, Benugo.

"We look forward to throwing open the doors of the theatre and welcoming the public into the beautiful surroundings of this iconic building. For years, audience members have enjoyed Matcham’s masterpiece, now it’s time to share its splendour with many more people”

Iconic ​

Benugo's managing director Turlough McNamara said: "We’re proud to be part of the building’s future and are absolutely delighted to be involved in this project. The London Coliseum is an iconic building and is worthy of this transformation. Creating a restaurant and wine bar that is in keeping with the space is our top priority and we’re confident that we can do that with this exceptional team."

The creation of the wine bar and café forms the first phase of the building's renovation and will concentrate on opening up the ground floor foyer to provide uninterrupted views from the street. 

"Architecturally our design strategy will be to open up the ground floor foyer to the street, bringing the inside outside; re-form the elegant Edwardian foyer rooms, which have become lost; restore the Roman mosaic floors to their original splendour; re-light the exterior and interior spaces and position contemporary objects and furniture within - all with the aim of bringing theatrical sparkle to the place," said Robin Snell. 

Work is expected to start early next year following consultation from Westminster City Council, English Heritage and the Theatres Trust and planning permission.