When it comes to shopping in style, Selfridges has it all. The upscale department store sells everything from designer clothing to make-up, and now the London flagship store is home to a 24ft crystal-encrusted statue of Pegasus. With a 30ft wingspan, the impressive beast was created by famous artist Damien Hirst specifically to loom over diners at the newly refurbed Art-Deco all-day brasserie. The store has poured an impressive £300 million into a revamp, hoping it will attract shoppers the world over...but why a Pegasus?
According to Hirst, the light installation was an exciting project for him to take on. "I love the scale of it," gushed the artist. "I hope it's going to look like something beautiful from another world." The double-height space is across from the menswear department on the first floor, perfect for shoppers to refresh themselves after a hard day splashing the cash. The Brasserie of Light is the latest venture of reputed restauranteur Richard Caring, who has broken away from his usual style of casual dining to take on this all together other-worldly space. The restaurant will be the first of its kind for Selfridges, who will offer after-hours dining for guests - something they have never done before despite being 109 years old. Customers will be able to enter the venue from a separate street entrance, allowing the store to close as usual.
Popular chef Emanuel Machado is on board as the head chef, moving from another popular London eatery, Balthazar. As for the menu, diners can look forward to British classics and some internationally inspired dishes. The Pegasus itself will also get a nod, with a dessert called Pegasus Pie. The sweet treat is served with a yuzu coconut cloud, perfectly paired with The Queen of Time, a cocktail similar to Kir Royale.
The restaurant also benefits from spades of natural light thanks to its East-facing windows, reflecting perfectly on the highly-polished surroundings and of course, the giant crystal Pegasus.
Will you be booking a table? How do you feel about this massive (and stunning) Pegasus? Let us know your thoughts in the comments!
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