The Beachcomber - at the May Fair Hotel

London, United Kingdom

The Beachcomber restaurant opened in July 1960, in the historic May Fair Hotel in Berkeley Square in Mayfair, London. It was created under the direction of the Danziger brothers Harry and Edward, American film producers who had moved to London and bought the hotel. The Beachcomber was the first introduction of the American Polynesian restaurant phenomenon to London, opening a few years before the London Trader Vic's. (The whole concept and name were nicked by the Butlin's chain of holiday camps for their Beachcomber Bars.) It was the apex of upscale themed dining, with rainstorms over a pond of caimans, parrots in and out of cages, and oceanic art all around. Storm and lighting effects added a theatrical feel to the space. Tableside flaming coffee grogs were served, and beautiful custom mugs, bowls and other serveware were used. The restaurant closed in 1985, and it was turned into the Crystal Room.

There is a modern-day bar in Notting Hill also called The Beachcomber, it has no connection to this historic restaurant.