Gaia: Mayfair's Opulent Greek-Inspired Dining Experience

Nestled in the heart of Mayfair, Gaia exudes opulence with its Greek-inspired cuisine and lavish ambiance. Despite the upscale Piccadilly locale, the restaurant's Greek-style offerings come with a Middle Eastern twist, reminiscent of its sister establishments in Dubai, Qatar, and Monte Carlo.

Upon entering the palatial dining room, guests are greeted by a stunning display of fresh seafood, including lobsters, oysters, turbot, and seabass, elegantly arranged on crushed ice. Led by British-Nigerian chef Izu Ani and Peloponnese native Orestis Kotefas, the menu boasts refined interpretations of classic Hellenistic dishes, from tzatziki and spanakopita to Greek salad and an array of seafood delicacies.

Highlights include impeccably smooth taramasalata, succulent wood oven-grilled prawns served in a delectable honey and rosemary-infused oil, and a decadent moussaka featuring layers of minced beef, potato, bechamel, and cheese atop grilled aubergine. The astakomakaronada, a lobster pasta dish, shines with its generous portion of linguine and sweet cherry tomato sauce adorned with juicy kalamata olives.

While the majority of dishes delight, the butterflied and pan-fried red mullet falls slightly short amidst the bold flavors of the meal. Gaia's menu structure encourages communal dining, with dishes served family-style by apron-clad staff, adding a touch of theatricality to the dining experience.

Set within a grand banqueting hall adorned with marble, mirrors, and ornate chandeliers, Gaia offers a memorable setting for special celebrations. Despite its lavish ambiance, the restaurant maintains a relaxed vibe, welcoming both intimate gatherings and lively groups of friends and families.

With its luxurious Mediterranean fare and extravagant setting, Gaia promises an epic dining experience worthy of Olympic budgets.