Idalia restaurant opens in historic Olympia Pillar Hall

Des Gunewardena, the co-founder and former CEO of D&D London, has launched Idalia within the expansive 30,000 sq ft Pillar Hall at Olympia, London. This establishment is part of Olympia's £1.3 billion redevelopment and has a rich history, having previously hosted events such as Vivienne Westwood's 1981 Pirate debut and performances by Jimi Hendrix and Pink Floyd. The venue, designed by Robert Angell Design International, showcases an abstract gold and cream ceiling, climbing plants adorning Corinthian columns, vibrant upholstery, and an oval bar with translucent orange panels. The culinary team, led by executive chef Samantha Williams and executive pastry chef Lorena Tommasi, offers seasonal British dishes with global influences, including wood-roasted turbot with shichimi togarashi butter. The standout dessert, Vivienne Heel, is a chocolate stiletto inspired by Westwood's debut. Idalia is situated at Pillar Hall, 5 Olympia Way, London W14 0EY.