The origin of socca – a pancake made from chickpea flour – is disputed. Some cite Roman soldiers using upturned shields as makeshift pans to make food on the go, others say the recipe was created when Nice was under siege by Turkish forces. Whatever the history, today the crispy, deep-fried flatbread is a staple throughout the Mediterranean – best served with a glass of chilled rosé in the sun. 

This is where Mayfair’s new French-Mediterranean bistro derives its name. Conceived by restaurateur Samyukta Nair of LSL Capital and Michelin-starred chef Claude Bosi, the restaurant brings patrons a taste of the French Riviera from its South Audley Street location. From langoustines with lemon and sunflower seeds served with socca and aubergine tartinade, to ‘My Mum’s Trip & Cuttlefish Gratin’, the menu finds the perfect balance of seasonal simplicity and Mediterranean decadence.

The interior – inspired by La Colombe d’Or and the Villa Santo Sospir and designed by local practice Fabled Studio – places hand-painted murals alongside hanging works influenced by Jean Cocteau and Raoul Dufy. Traditional accents include a bar topped with Breccia Violetta marble work, whimsical lamps and scallop shell wall lights. Together the colours, art and design choices create an authentic, sophisticated atmosphere.

After lunch, we chatted with restaurant manager Zac Grego about the bistro, Mayfair village, and his love of the area.