Bob Bob Ricard

Bob Bob Ricard London Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Travel Guide

Date: 04/07/2025

Introduction

Nestled in the heart of London’s Soho district, Bob Bob Ricard Soho is a destination like no other. Renowned for its opulent interiors, playful Anglo-Russian culinary blend, and the iconic “Press for Champagne” button at every booth, the restaurant delivers an unforgettable dining experience. Since opening in 2008, Bob Bob Ricard has become a symbol of luxury and innovation, drawing inspiration from the golden age of rail travel and offering a menu that artfully balances British comfort classics with Russian delicacies. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or seeking an immersive culinary adventure, this guide provides all the essential information—covering history, visitor tips, reservations, hours, and more—to ensure a seamless and memorable visit (Bob Bob Ricard Soho, David Collins Studio, Secret LDN).

Introduction
History and Background
Practical Visitor Information
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Summary and Tips for Travelers
References

History and Background

Origins and Founding Vision

Bob Bob Ricard (BBR) opened in 2008 at 1 Upper James Street, Soho, founded by Leonid Shutov. Drawing on his Russian roots and British influences, Shutov set out to create a restaurant that fused the glamour of the golden age of travel with the comfort of a classic brasserie. The concept was realized with the creative partnership of David Collins Studio, resulting in a venue that channels both the Orient Express and grand European brasseries (Bob Bob Ricard Soho, Everything Explained, David Collins Studio).

Design and Atmosphere

The design of Bob Bob Ricard is a major part of its appeal. Interiors are inspired by luxury train carriages, particularly the Orient Express, with features including:

Marble and terrazzo flooring
Custom kaleidoscopic wallpapers
Brass and gold detailing
Plush blue-and-gold booth seating, ensuring privacy and comfort

The overall aesthetic is described as “naughty opulence,” immersing diners in a world of theatrical luxury. The famous “Press for Champagne” button is not only practical but has become a symbol of the restaurant’s playful approach to hospitality (Secret LDN, David Collins Studio, The World’s 50 Best).

The menu at BBR is a refined fusion of British and Russian influences, with standout dishes such as:

Vodka and caviar starters
Oysters and steak tartare
Chicken Kiev and beef Wellington
Decadent desserts including Strawberries and Cream Soufflé and Chocolate Fondant

A unique aspect is the wine list: every bottle has a maximum mark-up of £50, regardless of its retail price. This transparency and value are rare among high-end London restaurants (Everything Explained, Secret LDN).

Expansion and Sister Restaurant

Building on its Soho success, Bob Bob Ricard opened a second location in the City of London in 2019. The City branch, located in the Leadenhall Building, features similar booth seating and champagne buttons but with a design inspired by the Royal Yacht Britannia and superyachts (Alotea, Bob Bob Ricard City).

Cultural Significance and Reception

Bob Bob Ricard has received numerous accolades for its design and dining experience, including:

Best Interior, GQ Magazine Food and Drink Awards
Best Booths, Wallpaper Design Awards 2009
Restaurant of the Year, London Lifestyle Awards 2020 (David Collins Studio)

It is celebrated for its hospitality and for pouring more champagne than any other UK restaurant (Secret LDN). Critical reviews run the gamut from AA Gill’s infamous critique to perfect scores for food from MasterChef’s Gregg Wallace (Everything Explained).

Notable Events and Pop Culture

The Red Room, a private dining area at the Soho location, hosts creative pop-ups and themed events. In 2025, it features “Marseille Bob’s,” a Wes Anderson-inspired bar in honor of his film “The Phoenician Scheme,” with immersive set design and cocktails (Secret LDN Wes Anderson).

Practical Visitor Information

Visiting Hours and Reservations

Opening Hours: Open daily for lunch and dinner. Lunch is typically about 20% less expensive than dinner (London x London).
Reservations: Strongly recommended, particularly for evenings and weekends. Book via the official website or by phone.
Tickets: No entry fee; dining is by reservation only.

Location and Accessibility

Address: 1 Upper James Street, Soho, London, W1F 9DF (Bob Bob Ricard Soho)
Accessibility: The restaurant is wheelchair accessible. For specific needs, notify the team in advance.
Travel: Closest London Underground stations are Tottenham Court Road and Piccadilly Circus. Buses and taxis are also convenient.
Nearby Attractions: Golden Square, Carnaby Street, and other Soho highlights are just steps away.

Dress Code and Private Dining

Dress Code: Smart, elegant attire is required. Sportswear and activewear are not permitted (Alotea).
Private Dining: The Red Room accommodates groups of 10–16, ideal for special events.

Signature Experience

No visit is complete without pressing the “Press for Champagne” button at your table—a signature indulgence and a hallmark of the BBR experience.

Visual and Interactive Features

The official website offers photo galleries of the interiors, dishes, and champagne service. Virtual tours and maps are also available for planning your visit.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What are Bob Bob Ricard’s opening hours?
A: Open daily for lunch and dinner; lunch is generally about 20% less expensive than dinner.

Q: Is there an entry fee or ticket required?
A: No entry fee; reservations are required for dining.

Q: How do I book a table?
A: Bookings can be made online via the official website or by phone.

Q: What is the dress code?
A: Smart, elegant attire is required. No activewear or sportswear.

Q: Is the restaurant wheelchair accessible?
A: Yes, with advance notice for specific assistance.

Q: What is the “Press for Champagne” button?
A: A unique feature at every table that summons champagne service at the touch of a button.

Summary and Tips for Travelers

Bob Bob Ricard Soho is more than just a restaurant—it’s a cultural landmark that embodies London’s eclectic culinary and design scene. With interiors inspired by luxury rail travel, a menu that harmonizes British and Russian influences, and its playful champagne service, BBR stands out as a destination for both locals and visitors. For the best experience:

Book early, especially for peak times
Adhere to the smart dress code
Be open to the restaurant’s unique and theatrical ambiance

Keep an eye on the official website and social channels for exclusive events and pop-ups. The central Soho location makes BBR a perfect addition to a day of exploring London’s most vibrant neighborhoods. For personalized dining guides and up-to-date tips, download the Audiala app (Bob Bob Ricard Soho, Secret LDN, David Collins Studio).