The Elysée: A Fitzrovia Address with Greek Hospitality at Its Heart
From its beginnings in the 1930s to its place in London’s Greek dining culture, The Elysée has a story shaped by food, family and celebration.
For generations, Percy Street has been home to a restaurant with a distinctive place in London’s dining history. The Elysée opened in Fitzrovia in 1936, beginning its life as a French restaurant before developing the Greek identity for which it later became known.
That change came in 1962, when George, Michael and Ulysses Karageorgis took over the establishment. Under their direction, Greek and Mediterranean cooking became central to the restaurant, alongside live music and entertainment. The Elysée’s story became one of family stewardship as well as hospitality—a tradition continued by the next generation.
Over the years, the restaurant has welcomed a notable list of guests. According to its history, visitors have included Prince Philip, The Beatles and members of England’s 1966 World Cup-winning team. Such associations form part of the story of a venue that has witnessed decades of change in the capital.
The dining room reflects the restaurant’s long-standing sense of occasion. Decorative mirrors with Greek-inspired borders, warm-toned seating and white-clothed tables create a setting that draws on classical detail. Separate dining spaces offer a different atmosphere, with pale interiors and large windows lending themselves to more intimate gatherings.
Greek hospitality has been expressed not only through the food but also through the restaurant’s tradition of entertainment. Live music, dancing and plate smashing have formed part of The Elysée’s celebratory identity, giving evenings there a character that extends beyond the dining table.
The venue’s roof garden added another dimension to its Fitzrovia setting, providing an outdoor space above the streets of central London. Alongside the restaurant and private dining rooms, it reflects the evolution of The Elysée from its early years into a venue associated with gatherings of many kinds.
The Elysée’s history is woven into the story of London’s Greek community and its hospitality scene. From French silver service to Greek music and Mediterranean dining, its journey offers a glimpse of how one Fitzrovia address has changed with the city around it.
TREND Magazine | Food & Lifestyle
Address: 13 Percy Street, Fitzrovia, London W1T 1DP
Telephone: 020 7636 4804
Website: elyseerestaurant.com