The Fluxx Editors Review: A Contemporary Mediterranean Gem Balancing Design, Flavour, and Experience

London has no shortage of restaurants that promise atmosphere, craftsmanship, and culinary flair. Yet occasionally a new opening arrives that feels entirely effortless; somewhere that understands the importance of design as deeply as it understands the importance of flavour. Claro, a contemporary Mediterranean restaurant with Middle Eastern influences, is exactly that place. Situated within a beautifully restored listed building in the heart of St James’s, it is one of those rare destinations that manages to be modern and fresh while still respecting the heritage of its remarkable Edwardian setting.

Since opening in October 2024, Claro has not only captured the attention of London’s design-conscious dining community but also earned well-deserved recognition from the Michelin Guide in its first year. For us at The Fluxx, the experience was as memorable for its interiors as it was for its dishes—an elevated, thoughtfully conceived space that balances energy with calm, and reverence with innovation.

A Design-Led Space Rooted in Heritage

Claro’s design—crafted by DLSM Studio—is undoubtedly one of its standout features. The restaurant occupies a former banking hall, and while many hospitality spaces across London’s heritage buildings struggle to marry old and new, Claro handles that balance with remarkable finesse.

Grand architectural details remain proudly intact: intricate mouldings, classical pillars, and beautiful wrought-iron railings. Instead of competing with these features, the contemporary design elements gently soften them. Timber, leather, textured fabrics, and clean architectural lines bring a sense of warmth to the soaring, double-height space. Mixed materials add depth without distracting from the building’s original character

The open kitchen and counter dining create a kinetic focal point—drawing the eye, adding energy, and ensuring that even in such an expansive room, the experience feels personal. Soft lighting casts a warm glow across the space, creating intimacy that contrasts beautifully with the grandeur of the architecture.

It is no surprise that Claro was honoured with the Best in Show FABulous Award for Interiors & Retail Environment at the 2025 FAB Awards. It’s a restaurant that truly understands how design influences experience, and every detail has been thoughtfully considered to enhance the mood, pace, and comfort of the guest.

We particularly loved how the space balances lively atmosphere with moments of calm. Part of this comes from the location—just moments from the vibrancy of Regent Street yet tucked quietly enough into St James’s that you can enjoy the ambience without the frantic energy often associated with central London dining. It feels “London” without overwhelming you—a perfect spot for visitors and locals alike.

Contemporary Mediterranean Dining With Middle Eastern Soul

Claro’s culinary identity sits proudly between Mediterranean freshness and Middle Eastern depth, shaped by the vision of Founding Chef Ran Shmueli and brought to life daily by Head Chef Shadi Issawy. The menu is generous, vibrant, and rooted in the spirit of sharing, with a focus on seasonal British produce enhanced by bold spices, aromatic herbs, and colourful vegetables.

One of the joys of eating at Claro is the sense of abundance. The dishes burst with freshness, and each plate feels both comforting and exciting. Signature moments include:

Market salad with Greek feta and za’atar—simple yet incredibly satisfying
Summer courgette salad with pecorino romano and honey chilli hazelnuts—full of contrast and texture
Frena bread with green tahini, aubergine, and labneh—a warm, richly layered starter that sets the tone
Shrimp falafel served with fresh herb tahini, bright and perfectly balanced
Tuna tartare with Greek yoghurt and crispy Jerusalem bagel—light, tangy, and beautifully presented
Monkfish shawarma with amba tahini and grilled pita—a standout dish with depth and complexity

Meat lovers are equally well catered to, with the signature pork rib with romesco, perfectly cooked steaks, and seasonal grilled dishes highlighting the kitchen’s confidence and skill.

The brunch menu is an experience of its own. The Breakfast Tray for Two is both generous and meticulously curated, while the crab omelette and shakshuka with challah are highlights worth returning for. Even Sundays bring their own charm: the Mediterranean-inflected Sunday roast, including the Claro Lamb Platter, offers a sophisticated twist on a British tradition.

Desserts continue the theme of indulgence without excess. From pancakes topped with baked maple apples to mille-feuille with silky vanilla cream and a dark chocolate mousse with tahini crumble, the sweet course is every bit as considered as the savoury.

Food - Top left clockwise: Lamb cigars / Summer cougette salad / Frena Bread / Tuna tartare

Thoughtful Wine, Cocktails, and Creative Non-Alcoholic Options

As with the interiors and culinary offering, the drinks menu is meticulously crafted. The wine list celebrates a global mix of styles—from crisp Chablis to English sparkling wines to the fabulous Rkatsiteli orange wine from Georgia (which we tried and cannot recommend enough)— and biodynamic Austrian labels such as Theodora.

Cocktails are equally inventive. The Masterpiece Martini—rosemary-infused vodka with clarified tomato—is a striking balance of savoury and aromatic, while Fuego Rosa blends Casamigos Blanco with chilli hibiscus iced tea for a delicate heat.

We were also impressed by the Gazoz selection, a refreshing lineup of naturally sparkling fruit-and-herb sodas. The combinations—wild berry with cardamom, or triple citrus with fennel seeds, pineapple, and alyssum flowers—offer an elevated alcohol-free option rarely executed this well.

Drinks. Top left clockwise: Red wine / Golden Orchard Cocktail / Espresso Martini / Forest Whisper Cocktail

Experience, Atmosphere, and Service

Dining at Claro feels special without being formal, and refined without pretence. The two-floor layout, Mediterranean garden terrace, private dining rooms, and a mixture of counter, bar, and table seating give diners a choice of atmosphere—intimate, lively, or relaxed.

The service is warm and attentive, making the experience feel seamless from start to finish. Whether you’re stopping by for a pre-theatre meal, settling in for a long brunch, or gathering for a celebratory dinner, the staff strike the perfect balance between professionalism and ease.

Location: Central but Uncrowded

One of the elements we appreciated most was Claro’s position in St James’s. It’s close enough to London’s busiest and most iconic streets to be convenient and energetic—but just removed enough to avoid the crowds and noise that often define central London dining. It’s an ideal location for visitors exploring the capital, as well as Londoners seeking a stylish but unhurried spot for dinner or brunch.
The combination of exceptional food, thoughtful design, and a calm-but-central setting makes Claro a rare gem—especially for those who want to enjoy the vibrancy of London without the chaos.

Private dining. Photography: Dave Watts

A Contemporary Classic in the Making

Claro brings together everything we love about London’s evolving dining scene: a spectacular heritage building brought sensitively into the present, a menu that respects tradition while embracing creativity, and an atmosphere that invites both celebration and relaxation.

It is the kind of restaurant that feels instantly familiar yet distinctly new—a place where attention to detail elevates the entire experience. From brunch to cocktails, from design to flavour, Claro is a standout addition to St James’s and a restaurant we expect to see continue rising in acclaim.

For those seeking a dining experience that marries beauty, creativity, and substance, Claro is a must-visit. And for us, it’s a restaurant we’ll be returning to time and again.

Discover more at: claro-london