In the 1960s, politician Geoffrey Rippon, of the Ministry of Works*, modernised the restaurant facilities in the Royal Parks, making them 'available to all'. The result was a new and ultra modern '60s grill-style restaurant, which opened in Regent's Park in 1964, near Queen Mary's Rose Garden and the Open Air Theatre.

In opening 'The Garden Cafè' on the same site, Caper Green's Mike Lucy has rejuvenated the 1960s feel providing classic English favourites, using only fresh, seasonal ingredients - taking the fussiness out of food and the pretensions out of presentation. The menu provides a culinary journey into 1960s English culture, recreated to the contemporary high standards expected from the company behind the 'The Brew House' at Kenwood. With Henry Harris as Menu Consultant, The Garden Cafè will offer dishes such as Potted Shrimps on wholemeal toast to whet the appetite, in anticipation of a fulfilling shepherd's pie or richly satisfying kedgeree. Such will be the prevailing Englishness of the menu, overseen by Head Chef Cyrus Cato (formerly at Harvey Nichols Fifth Floor and Prism). Menu variations include Monkfish Provencale, Chicken Kiev, Rib eye steak and chips and Pavlova.

While prices might not be calculated in the pounds, shillings and pence of the 1960s, the menu will offer good value for money, with the average price per head at £10 for a main course, with no minimum charge, and smaller dishes, sandwiches and snacks available throughout the day. The wine list is a satisfying collation of timeless old world classics, with a range of beers and soft drinks on offer.

The open plan design of the Garden Cafè reflects the original architectural plans drawn up in the 1960s, sourced from the RIBA archives. Working with Lumsden Design Partnership, these plans provided the inspiration for Mike Lucy in planning The Garden Cafè the result is simple, open plan comfort and beautifully naturally light - the antithesis of the designer-led and concept interiors, so widespread in many new restaurants today. The Garden Cafè will seat 300, 150 inside and 150 out, beside the rose gardens and Open Air Theatre of Regent's Park. An idyllic setting in Central London.

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