Simpson's in the Strand was originally known as the Grand Divin Chess Club and Coffee House when it opened in 1828. Photo: Simpson' s in the Strand
Restaurant enthusiasts are given the chance to own a piece of history as the 200-year-old Simpson's in the Strand is auctioning off its silver wood carving carts.
Once a favorite haunt of Arthur Conan Doyle and Charles Dickens, the restaurant is auctioning thousands of items from around the restaurant, including 19th-century Waterford crystal chandeliers, fireplaces, Wedgewood ware and grand pianos.
The establishment, which has been closed since the start of the pandemic, will also be selling off its silver carving carts, which are considered almost the same establishment as the restaurant itself.
Simpson's in in. The Strand was originally known as the Grand Divin Chess Club and Coffee House when it opened in 1828, but it made a deal with caterer John Simpson in 1848.
Slicing carts have been removed to serve chess players without disturbing them in the middle of the game, keeping the meat warm during the game.
These carving carts have a starting price of £6,500 and £2,200 respectively. Photo: Simpson's in the Strand. priced at £1,500 while another was posted online for £6,500.
A spokesman for the Savoy Hotel, which owns Simpson's in the Strand, said: “While the stories, history and foundation of Simpson's remain, a few select items will be available for purchase as it enters. into a new chapter.
“The Savoy Hotel will provide customers with the opportunity to own a piece of this legendary establishment and look forward to sharing exciting plans for the future.”
And Simpson's in the Strand , and The Savoy are part of the Fairmont Hotel Group.
The sale of thousands of pieces of crockery, furniture and paintings comes after the doors of Simpson's on the Strand remained closed for years.
The Savoy Hotel reopened quickly after lockdown rules were changed. However, it was only recently that Savoy said it would announce plans to open Simpson's in the Strand in 2024.
This comes despite the restaurant's history of previous wars and rationing. At some point during World War I, Simpson's had to introduce a “no meat” day due to restrictions on meat rations, while potatoes were only available one day a week.
Simpson's in the Strand was refurbished in 2017, at the time it was said it was all about improvement, to make guests feel like it's always been that way, which will more than live up to their expectations in terms of service and style.”
This included retaining the dining table location favored by Winston Churchill, next to the fireplace at the far end of the restaurant. Figures including King Charles and Peter O'Toole were also featured in the dining room.
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