London Restaurateur Jeremy King on Opening Simpson’s in the Strand

As trite as the saying “a man that needs no introduction” may be, it couldn’t ring truer for Jeremy King. The iconic British restaurateur is a byword for some of the capital’s most famous and era-defining establishments: from the Ivy, the Wolseley and J Sheekey, to more recently Arlington and the Park. After cutting his teeth as Searcys’s youngest-ever manager at the age of 21, King and his longtime business partner Chris Corbin became legendary for transforming London’s historic “grand dame” restaurants into modern cultural institutions. “There is something about the grandeur,” King explains to Robb Report, “and what I love is the grandeur without pretension.”

That intoxicating mix has long resonated with clients, who have included notables from all walks of life. Take Le Caprice, which opened in 1981 and which King relaunched as Arlington in 2024. It was reputedly among Princess Diana’s favorite eateries (she was known to enjoy a crispy duck salad, dining among rock and Hollywood royalty that included Mick Jagger, Madonna, Kate Moss, and Elizabeth Taylor). “The best restaurants have to be a mélange of different people, interests, backgrounds, and wealth,” explains King.

Expect to find that intriguing fusion at Simpson’s in the Strand, which reopened in March, and its upstairs bar and second restaurant, Romano’s. King had been eyeing up the establishment for over 25 years, no doubt for that blend of grandeur and history. Its famed 19th-century patrons included the writers Charles Dickens and Arthur Conan Doyle, who dined among rolling carving trolleys—which, in fact, were quietly gliding in the background to prevent disturbing the country’s top chess players, the venue being the sport’s British center at the time. “Simpson’s has never been about spectacle. It’s about concentration,” says King. And now, he hopes, also a place of “calm, confidence, and continuity”—an irresistible setting that couldn’t feel more apt today.

How do you start your day?

I am normally up by 5:00 am with a slightly reluctant Teddy the cockapoo. She is like me and enjoys rituals. She goes back to bed downstairs while I check for urgent emails or messages, then the news and Wordle, to make sure my brain is working.

What is your personal style signifier?

Suit and white shirt from Jermyn Street legend Turnbull & Asser, a tie and a white pocket handkerchief.

What is the last thing you bought and loved?

A complete set of Anthony Powell’s A Dance to the Music of Time. I frequently read the 12 volumes that were published between 1951 to 1975.

What place has special meaning to you?

Arlington restaurant. I opened Le Caprice when I was 27 years old and had only ever been an employee. I really transitioned into an adult then, moving through taking control and having true responsibility. I’ve only recently recognized that I’m a very reactive person—and that I love doing things on feel and intuition.

Where did you travel recently that was memorable?

I recently went on a trip with my son to Burnham-on-Sea, where I grew up. Jonah is basing a screenplay on the town and a father-and-son relationship. Showing and sharing memories was poignant, especially for my son to see me as a child growing up.

What are the ingredients for a great table?

Having a bit of a squeeze, sharing food, and no music till late—because it can dominate and distract.

What do you always keep in your fridge?

Coconut water, goat’s yogurt, pomegranate, endive, mayonnaise, dog food, Vichy Catalan.

What constitutes luxury to you?

Not having to worry about the cost of what you want. To me true luxury is not being ostentatious. Maybe silk underwear answers the question: you know you’re wearing them, but hardly anyone else needs to (not that I actually do—mine are from Marks & Spencer).

What is your favorite city and why?

London, to live. I understand the city and it accommodates and facilitates my lifestyle. Paris to visit, because Parisians know how to live.

Where do you get your clothes?

My suits come from Timothy Everest or sometimes Anderson & Sheppard, or Hanish Patel’s Bespoke Attire. I go to Volpe’s Adrian Holdsworth for my shirts and Connolly for all other clothing and casual pieces.

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Who is your designer icon?

The interior designer Shayne Brady. We’ve done eight restaurants together and I’d be lost without him. He takes anything I’ve wanted to do and takes it that much further. And also the architect Amanda Levete, who has showed me why it was just as well I didn’t become an architect.

Who do you admire most, and why?

Paul Smith. He’s brilliant but modest, generous, and altruistic. And he’s the least narcissistic person I know, who embodies the idea of bien dans sa peau.

What’s the best advice you’ve received?

Does it count if from myself? “Only strive to what you ‘want’ to do with your life—not what you feel you ‘should.’” And for others: “Stop looking up for help and guidance—look down to see who you can help and mentor.”

What have you done recently for the first time?

Forgiven myself.

Do you have any personal rituals?

My life is full of ritual—it gives me the structure and discipline from which I can break free and innovate.

What would you have liked to be in another life?

An architect or artist.