The Bite Magazine - Autumn/Winter 2025 - Issue 38

Cheesecake, originating from Spain’s Basque Country, famous for its intentionally burnt, caramelised top and an incredibly creamy, almost liquid, custard-like centre. French Toast (Torrijas), a cus- tard-soaked bread pudding, with a coating of cinnamon-sugar or drizzled with honey syrup, provided a sweet finale that lingered long after the plates were cleared. The drinks program was equally compelling. Lírica’s bar intro- duced a limited-edition cocktail selection, including Sangria re- imagined with seasonal fruits, the Jose Collins, a Spanish twist on the classic Tom Collins, and Vanilla Margaritas that balanced citrus sharpness with a hint of warmth. The wine list, exclusively Spanish, showcases the country’s terroir diversity, from crisp Al- bariños of Galicia to robust Riojas and elegant Priorats. Beers and spirits rounded out the offering, ensuring that every palate could find its match. Together, the food and drink created a symphony of flavours, each note distinct yet harmonious, much like the lyri- cal poetry that inspired the restaurant’s name. Pedro da Silva, General Manager at The Cumberland Hotel, addressed the gathering with enthusiasm. “We’re excited to an- nounce the opening of Lírica, a celebration of Spanish tapas and our shared love of music. Why Lírica? The name draws inspira- tion from our musical history, translating the soul of lyrics into a Spanish culinary experience. Opening January 2026, Lírica will serve authentic tapas inspired by the vibrant neighbourhoods of Spain, perfectly paired with wines and beers sourced exclusive- ly from Spain. We can’t wait to bring this new experience to our guests.” His words underscored the harmony between The Cumber- land’s storied musical heritage and the restaurant’s lyrical ethos. The hotel has hosted legends from Bob Dylan to Lady Gaga, and continues to champion London’s cultural scene with live music and entertainment seven days a week. Lírica, in this context, is an extension of the hotel’s identity, a place where food and music intertwine. The restaurant’s interiors are integral to its narrative. The design balances sophistication with warmth, blending earthy tones with bold patterns and rich textures. Terracotta, mustard, and olive hues pair with natural wood and soft lighting to create intima- cy. Curved bars and plush seating evoke retro elegance, while abstract art and sculptural lighting add a contemporary edge. Layered textiles, statement shelving, and eclectic artwork bring personality and depth, ensuring that the space feels lived-in yet refined. It is a room designed for lingering, for sharing plates and stories, for moments that stretch into memories. Situated at Marble Arch, The Cumberland is one of London’s most iconic hotels. With 900 bedrooms, extensive meeting and event spaces, and a continually evolving food and beverage offering, it caters to leisure and corporate guests. Its prime location at the corner of Oxford Street and Park Lane makes it a gateway to the West End, while its musical heritage lends it cultural gravitas. The addition of Lírica marks a new chapter in the hotel’s culinary jour- ney. It will be followed by the UK’s first Hell’s Kitchen by Gordon Ramsay in spring 2026, cementing The Cumberland’s position as a destination for food lovers and music enthusiasts. Reservations for Lírica opened in mid-December 2025, ahead of the official launch. The restaurant will seat 75 guests and operate for lunch and dinner, offering a menu designed for sharing. Lo- cated at the hotel, Lírica is poised to become a sanctuary from the bustle of central London, a place where guests can savour a meal and a moment of harmony. Opening times will run daily from 12:00 pm to 2:00 pm, offering a midday escape into Spanish culinary traditions. Lírica’s preview served food that honours tradition while em- bracing innovation, interiors that balance elegance with warmth, drinks that surprise and delight, and an atmosphere where con- versation flows as freely as the wine. In a city where dining op- tions abound, Lírica distinguishes itself by offering not just tapas, but a philosophy that food, like poetry, is best when shared. As London prepares to welcome this lyrical addition to its culinary landscape, Lírica is set to become a chorus in the city’s symphony of flavours. www.thecumberland.com/food-drink/lirica bitecuisine Pan Con Tomate Food Photography: Tony Wellington Chicken Thigh Iberico Ham Croquetas