4 January 2008

Come on Down

Almada Bar & Club Opens

You’ve heard about it but never knew when or where to find it.

You’re not the only one.

Almada, the new split-level wonderland beneath sister venue Automat, has been open for a while but isn’t officially open; it goes by the name of Almada but also 17 Berkeley Street; it serves food but isn’t really a restaurant.

According to charismatic owner Carlos Almada, the overall theme of this members-only eatery-cum-disco is Murder on the Orient Express meets Frank Lloyd Wright and ’30s Palm Springs. With leather banquettes and a classic American menu, the restaurant is reminiscent of 1920s New York, while the back lounge is more suburban California.

In true chaotic Almada style, applications for general membership will open in late January, but you can go now if accompanied by an already selected member (i.e., friend of Almada) or have been personally invited to book using a private phone number.

Confused? Intrigued? Willing to investigate the case with vigour?

Join the club.

Almada, 17 Berkeley Street, W1J 8EA (0207 499 3033 or automat-london.com).