It's got one of the most stunning locations in London, nestling beside Tower Bridge on the bank of the Thames and now Le Pont de la Tour is getting a makeover to match.
The restaurant, known for its French classical cooking, will be re-opening in late September after a major refurb. A new head chef, Frederick Forster, will be in charge, straight from the Boundary restaurant in Shoreditch.
Frederick comes with an impeccable pedigree: he trained with Pierre Gagnaire and he's worked at the Ritz, Le Gavroche and Le Manoir aux Quat' Saisons.
His new menus are designed to showcase French cuisine, with a touch of the unexpected - while celebrating the best of British produce. Among the highlights - roasted Orkney scallops with violet artichokes, and a starter of golden beetroot with turnip and wild wood sorrel will be matched with pears and cobnuts. A main course of poached turbot with leeks and cauliflower and a crab sauce sounds equally promising.
There's an impressive wine list which focuses not just on France, but Italy and California too - and for the first month of the re-opening, a selection of rather special wines will be offered for 1991 prices, which can only be a good thing.
There's a bar menu for less formal occasions with a list of smaller, sharing plates and cocktails celebrating "the best of France". Add in a programme of live music from Thursday to Saturday, and it looks like the venue will be completely transformed.
Décor is by Russell Sage studios, the design house behind some of the capital's top restaurants (including Grain Store and Social Eating House) and will feature an opulent gold pattered ceiling, art deco furniture and a distinctly nautical style.
D&D London's CEO Des Gunewardena says "What we are now doing is reinventing the space to bring it bang up to date, while staying true to Pont de La Tour's heritage". There will even be an outdoor dining area, complete with heating - to enjoy those riverside views all year round.
Le Pont de La Tour is at Butlers Wharf Buildings, 36 Shad Thames, London SE1 2YE. The restaurant and bar will re-open in late September - follow them on Twitter @lepontdelatour for the latest updates.
