Towards the end of last year, I was impatientlylooking forward to 2026 in eager anticipation of a couple of major events! The ongoing World Cup in North America and Mexico was one of them and what a treat it has been so far with England deservedly reaching the semifinals in a tournament packed with action and the ultimate glory to come hopefully. Additionally, another huge point of anticipation was/is the 1.3 billion pound renovation of Olympia. The regeneration of W14 is an exciting time for Londoners and particularly us Royal Borough-dwellers. One of the highlights is Pillar Hall, a historic Grade II building within the Olympia complex. Housed inside is a trinity of treats headed by the glorious Idalia, one of London’s hottest new restaurant openings and also featuring Pepperbird, a stylish, underground speakeasy and Upstairs at Pillar Hall, an events space and dining venue with capacity for more than 500 people. Led by restaurateur-extraordinaire Des Gunewardena, founder of D3 Collective, Idalia is also the first hospitality opening within Olympia’s mammoth regeneration effort, bringing design, food and drink together in one of West London’s most historic and culturally significant spaces.
With the kitchen being led by Executive Chef Samantha Williams and Executive Pastry Chef Lorena Tommasi, who trained under Angela Hrtnett and Jeremy King respectively, the all-day restaurant has been open since March 2026. To further enhance its abundant offerings, it has partnered with Casamigos for its summer terrace with the pop-up bar serving frozen Palomas, Margaritas and build-your-own Sgroppinos, alongside seasonal dishes designed for relaxed summer dining. Designed by Robert Angell Design International, Idalia is grand and opulent yet intimate and easygoing in terms of the ambiance. The main dining room is righfully inspired by the building’s rich heritage and the surrounding Kensington gardens since greenery aboundsand warm tones collaborate with layered lighting combine to create a brilliantly, chameleonic space that shifts moods effortlessly between light and dark .
The menu takes inspiration from modern British cooking and effortlessly combines influences from international cuisines which have become part and parcel of London’s dining scene. Signature dishes include Kombu brined sea bream, pomegranate, blood orange and lovage oil, Miso crusted black cod, bok choi, chilli & spring onion, Pistachio Cheesecake – a balance of creamy sweetness and nutty richness and a playful Wimbledon-inspired creation of yuzu, mango and white chocolate served as an Amalfi Lemon Ice Cream in a frozen lemon shell
The centrepiece and also very much the heart of Idalia’s main hall is the lovely bar area. Vines wrapped around marbled, Greek-style pillars add to the classy environs which are perfectly complemented by classic and popular wines from around the world alongside some very exciting English producers particularly sparkling wines from the Hampshire vineyards of Coates & Seely. The drinks follow a protocol set by Cocktail Tailor – an atelier-inspired programme rooted in the golden age of cocktails. The menu is structured like a couture house, spanning ‘The Foundations’ (timeless classics executed with clarity and precision), ‘The Tailored’ (reworked signatures refined with modern technique and flavour) and ‘The Statements’ (bold, expressive creations designed to leave a lasting impression). Cheekily-named and scrumptiously brilliant cocktails include Zandra Royale, a Tanqueray 10 with pink sparkle, hibiscus, elderflower and peach, named in honour of Zandra Rhodes, who held her early fashion shows in the 1970s at Pillar Hall and D&G – an obviousl nod to Dolce & Gabbana, served in a glass bag to echo a statement accessory. A light, refreshing tequila highball with grapefruit, lime, lychee and elderflower, finished with a floral citrus lift.
We were privileged to meet the unassuming and charming Mr. Gunawardane in the late evening glow of Idalia Hall. He spoke to us about the project like a proud, new dad which didn’t feel analogous to a legendary pioneer of the British restaurant scene. It shows the passion and enthusiasm that keeps this wonderful man grounded and yearning to deliver more with each new project. His sincerity to enhance the experience of millions and billions of us who benefit from the capital’s vibrant and exciting food scene is a testament to his unique ability to inspire and deliver the best. A visit to Idalia is strongly recommended and much like the World Cup, 2026 is turning our to be a classic year!
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