Celebrity haunt Julie’s to reopen in 2024 under new ownership

Julie’s in London’s Holland Park is set to reopen in spring 2024 under new ownership.

The restaurant traded for 53 years and closed in December 2022. Owners Timothy and Cathy Herring had appointed Savills to find a buyer as part of their retirement plans.

Julie’s first launched under interior designer Julie Hodgess in 1967 and the Herrings took over the operation in 1972. The venue had been frequented by celebrity guests including Paul McCartney, Mick Jagger, Kate Moss and Tina Turner.

The reimagined Julie’s will be led by Tara MacBain, a Cordon Bleu-trained chef. She has lived in Holland Park for more than 20 years and spent many family lunches at the original Julie’s.

The 160-cover modern French brasserie will be spread across a ground floor dining room and bar and a basement dining area with an alfresco terrace.

Interior designer Rosanna Bossom has included statement features such as antique mirrored walls, embroidered leather chairs and a glazed volcanic bar top. The all-day menu will feature seafood towers and oysters from the UK and France, as well as a theatrical martini trolley for diners to enjoy a customised cocktail experience.

MacBain said: “I feel so grateful for the opportunity to reimagine this iconic restaurant, especially one that is so close to my heart. Julie’s has become a West London institution and I look forward to continuing its legacy.

“It is also no coincidence that our launch team consists almost entirely of West Londoners – it is so important to me that everyone involved in the project holds Julie’s to the same esteem and that we continue its unique story. I am so excited to welcome both original fans and a new generation of diners through our doors.”