Arguably the Aldwych has needed some spicing up for too long now. Homage, designed to be an elaborate nod towards the grand cafes of Europe, is the answer. There has been considerable speculation amongst an expectant public as to how this worthy aim would be seen in the flesh. Now we know. A Grand Salon offers modern European cuisine from breakfast time onwards until lunch, through to late at night. Initial reports suggest that the cuisine may be a touch under-rated at this stage, but the night is young (02/05).

The former Handsom Cab & Grill, the Opera Bar and the Gaslight Bar jointly occupied the space now occupied by the Homage Bar, and the three offer separate areas in which less formal eating can take place. Elaborate nod becomes a positive bow to the Homage Patisserie, where the spirit of the Viennese café predominates and afternoon tea can be taken in style

Overall the effects are dramatic. Various figures for this massive facelift are quoted, the most reliable of which seems to be £30m.