Last Martini at Christopher's - Covent Garden institution calls time after 30-odd years

Pour one out, ideally a martini. Christopher's, the American restaurant that's been part of Covent Garden since 1991, has closed its doors on Wellington Street for good, Secret London reports. The last service was at the end of September.

For more than three decades it was a go-to for American food in the West End, spread over a Martini Bar, a first-floor dining room and a private Club Room. The building's got serious history too. It's Grade II listed, it used to be a papier mâché factory, and in 1870 it became London's first licensed casino.

The Paul family has run the restaurant since 2010. Managing director Anika Paul thanked everyone who celebrated there, worked there or backed the place over the years. It isn't quite goodbye though. The family is on the hunt for a new long-term site, and the concept might get a refresh too. Until then, the team is doing pop-ups, private events and collaborations.

So what for hospo people? Thirty-plus years is a hell of a run in a part of London where restaurants open and shut every week. Here's hoping the new site turns up soon and the old crew get the band back together.