Harvey Nichols & Prism

In the strikingly elegant and historical former site of Bank of New York, Prism Restaurant promises stylish surroundings along with quality food and service. Restored by architects Lifschutz Davidson back to its former glory with all its original 1920s architectural features carefully replaced, the airy banking hall provides a distinctive 10,000 square-foot space on three levels - lower ground, ground and mezzanine - which have been transformed into a bar, 120 cover restaurant with conservatory and private dining rooms.

The 120 cover dining area is split into two spaces; the main restaurant with its classical columns and towering windows and a light-filled conservatory dining room. Furniture and fittings reflect Harvey Nichols's chic image with classic Mies van Rohe 1930 'Brno' chairs in brilliant red leather and American walnut waiter stations and exclusively designed serving trolleys and wine coolers.

Located in the City, Prism attracts a largely business crowd at lunch tempted by the good food, discreetly spaced tables and slick service. The menu is Modern British and a meal could begin with aplomb with the ballontine of rabbit with watercress and pistachio, tomato and celery jelly leading the way. Another excellent option would be the hand dived Scottish scallops with cauliflower puree, apple daikon cress and summer truffle which lends itself to a superb start.

For the main course, you could indulge in fillets of plaice steamed with lemon, thyme, mussels, freshly picked crab, courgette flower and sauce vierge while the saddle of Pyrenean milk fed lamb with cannelloni of confit shoulder, broad beans and tomato fondue offers a superb alternative.

Finishing touches could include a delectable caramel poached pear, with compôte, sorbet and Sauternes jelly although the blueberry frangipane with elderflower jelly and honeycomb ice cream is another favourite. The selection of cheeses from Cheese at Leadenhall rescues those with a strong preference for savoury endings to meals.

Prism has taken a further step forward by recognising the potential for breakfast in the City. In the light main room of Prism with its elegant 1920's style column an elegant breakfast is available on weekdays from 8 am to 10 am, with freshly squeezed orange or pink grapefruit juice, granola with Greek yoghurt and honey and caramelised banana, bagel croque Monsieur or Madame, and eggs Benedict with smoked haddock. Private rooms will also have the same facility, and Champagne Breakfast receptions can be arranged to start off a special day on the right note.

Prism Bar: The bar is situated below ground where once stood the bank vaults. Here Harvey Nichols has created a contemporary space with an accent on luxury with polished, reclaimed Maninga floors, Kavasinga panelling and leather bar linings.

Once again the furniture has been carefully chosen to inspire an elegant atmosphere. The 'Single' bar stools are by French designer Christophe Pillet and the oyster coloured leather rolled banquette designed by Lifschutz Davidson is flanked by serried ranks of low 'Bob' stools. A lunch time menu showcases simple and classic options where you might face a dilemma in choosing between a homemade short crust chicken and mushroom pie with mashed potatoes, Cornish pollock with chips, peas and tartare sauce or a Thai prawn curry with jasmine rice. The bar can be hired exclusively, accommodating a maximum of 80 guests for a drinks reception.

Private Dining Rooms: Prism has two private dining rooms; the Mezzanine seating 40 guests and the Library seating 20 guests. The Mezzanine is located on the first floor of Prism and is perfect for private dining, meetings or as a reception venue. It is a dual aspect room with an amazing view of both the Main Restaurant and Leadenhall Market.

The Library is situated on the ground, at the rear of the restaurant. It is perfect for small intimate lunches/dinners and meetings. Its style is reminiscent of a small gentleman's club, retaining many of its original features including the ornate ceiling and fireplace.

For further information, please visit the Harvey Nichols Website.