Jason Atherton to launch Pavlova's bar in London's Victoria Palace Theatre

Jason Atherton is to launch 20-cover bar Pavlova's at London's Victoria Palace Theatre, in homage to the legendary Russian ballet dancer who stands atop the venue.

The public-facing bar in the theatre, which is currently hosting hit musical Hamilton, has been created alongside owner Sir Cameron Mackintosh and will open its doors on 21 June.

Social Company owner Atherton said: "I'm delighted to be launching Pavlova's in Victoria's bustling theatre district in partnership with Sir Cameron Mackintosh. The Victoria Palace Theatre is a stunning building and we're honoured to now be a part of its longstanding history."

The drinks list has been curated by the Social Company's bar manager, Jay Doy, and will have a strong gin focus with a hidden cupboard storing more than 38 varieties from around the world.

The signature cocktail, the Dying Swan (gin, elderflower, citrus, cucumber and herbs, £9), has been named after Anna Pavlova's famous dance and features a music box that opens to reveal a rotating ballerina and the cocktail.

Other drinks will include, Queens Park Swizzle (gold rum, mint, citrus, soda and bitters, £9.50); Can't Fix, Won't Fix (Mescal, Chartreuse, tequila, pineapple, and citrus, £10), and Garden Negroni (rose gin, rhubarb, bitters and sweet vermouth, £10).

The room where it happens will also have a food offering, serving coffee and croissants in the morning and a selection of paninis, charcuterie and cheeses for lunch and dinner.

Sir Mackintosh added: "When I restored and extended the Victoria Palace Theatre, I planned to open part of the building as a bar available to the general public, not just theatregoers. I wanted to partner with one of London's most brilliant restaurateurs - and to my mind Jason Atherton is top of the bill, so I was thrilled when Jason enthusiastically agreed to create Pavlova's."

The Social Company currently numbers 15 restaurants worldwide, with London restaurants Pollen Street Social, Social Eating House and City Social all holding Michelin stars alongside his Clocktower restaurant at the New York Edition hotel.

Earlier this month Atherton** revealed plans to launch the Betterment restaurant within the Biltmore hotel in London's Mayfair.

Jason Atherton to launch Betterment restaurant at Mayfair's Biltmore hotel >>