Inside FENIX Mayfair, the London restaurant inspired by the Greek islands

Inspired by the rhythms of the Greek islands, FENIX Mayfair transforms a historic London building into an atmospheric dining destination defined by sculptural arches, handcrafted finishes and Mediterranean warmth.

By Catherine Mo | June 18, 2026 | Category travel-leisure

Mayfair, London has never lacked beautiful restaurants. Yet few recent openings have approached hospitality design with the level of restraint and sophistication seen at FENIX Mayfair, a new modern Greek restaurant designed by Studio WYZE. Occupying a landmark building on Piccadilly, the project translates the spirit of the Cyclades into a contemporary London setting through light, materiality and carefully choreographed spatial flow.

Led by Executive Chef Zisis Giannourous and Head Chef Angelos Togias, the culinary offering draws on traditional Aegean ingredients while embracing contemporary techniques. Studio WYZE's interiors mirror that same balance of heritage and modernity.

Studio WYZE drew on the architecture and atmosphere of the Cyclades, layering plaster arches, woven textures and soft lighting throughout the dining room.

A design narrative inspired by the mythical Phoenix

The concept takes its cue from the mythical Phoenix, reflecting cycles of renewal, transformation and the passage from day into night. Rather than relying on obvious references to Greek architecture, the studio approached the project through atmosphere, creating a sequence of spaces that unfold gradually as guests move through the restaurant.

Set across a single 4,500-square-foot floor accommodating 166 diners, the restaurant feels cohesive rather than compartmentalised. A series of sculptural plaster arches guide guests from the darker, more intimate bar spaces into brighter dining areas, creating a sense of rhythm and progression throughout the interior.

A sculptural central bar anchors the restaurant, illuminated by oversized raffia-fringed pendants and surrounded by custom-designed seating.

Working with a historic Mayfair building

Located behind a prominent 1920s Portland stone façade, the building presented both opportunities and constraints. Studio WYZE maximised existing natural light while working within strict planning regulations, allowing the architecture itself to become a central part of the design story.

Custom lighting and richly stocked backlit shelving create a warm focal point behind the bar.

The result is an interior that feels unmistakably contemporary while remaining deeply connected to its setting. Neutral tones, natural materials and layered textures establish a sense of quiet luxury, balancing Mediterranean warmth with Mayfair's refined sensibility.

"The design explores rhythm and restraint," says Christina Arbenz, Co-founder and Principal of Studio WYZE. "We allowed the existing architecture to inform the spatial approach, introducing curved plaster arches and a consistent material palette to create a series of interconnected spaces rather than separate rooms."

Layered textures, olive trees and dramatic chandeliers evoke the relaxed elegance of a contemporary Greek taverna.

The open kitchen becomes the heart of the restaurant

At the centre of the dining room sits FENIX's signature open-fire grill and open kitchen, conceived as both a culinary workspace and a focal design feature. The Studio WYZE team worked closely with the restaurant team to ensure guests could engage with the theatre of the cooking process, reinforcing the restaurant's emphasis on connection and shared experience.

One of the project's most innovative elements emerged from a challenge. Because daylight cannot reach every corner of the deep floorplate, Studio WYZE collaborated with INTO Lighting to create a feature wall of decorative Greek breeze blocks illuminated by colour-shifting light. The installation mirrors the changing qualities of natural daylight, transitioning from bright and fresh tones during the day to warmer hues as evening approaches.

Decorative screens cast a soft glow across the banquette seating, adding depth and intimacy to the dining experience.

Celebrating craftsmanship and Mediterranean materials

Authenticity and craftsmanship sit at the core of the project. Throughout the restaurant, bespoke finishes and artisan-made elements contribute to an atmosphere that feels both tactile and enduring.

Handcrafted fringe chandeliers introduce movement and drama, becoming one of the restaurant’s defining design features.

Decorative breeze blocks sourced from Greece form striking architectural screens, while specialist plaster finishes evoke the weathered textures of Mykonos. Elsewhere, custom terrazzo flooring, rammed-earth panels, lava stone surfaces and intricate bronze detailing introduce depth and material richness.

The design narrative continues through Italian parquet flooring, bespoke furniture crafted in Portugal and custom joinery produced in Ireland, creating a layered environment where every element feels considered.

Bespoke detailing extends to every surface, from the terrazzo flooring to the intricately carved metalwork of the bar.

A softer vision of luxury dining in London

While Mayfair has long been associated with opulence and maximalist interiors, Studio WYZE chose a more restrained path. The emphasis here is on atmosphere rather than spectacle, achieved through warm lighting, natural materials and handcrafted details.

Curved plaster arches, natural planting and tactile materials create a layered, transportive interior.

"Our design aim was to evoke the feeling of a Greek island gathering in London," explains Chris Sayce, Co-founder and Principal of Studio WYZE. "A place where guests immediately feel relaxed, can slow down and fully immerse themselves in the food, atmosphere and each other."

The result is a restaurant that feels transportive without becoming theatrical; one that captures the essence of Mediterranean hospitality while remaining firmly rooted in its London context. As hospitality design increasingly moves towards experiential storytelling, FENIX Mayfair demonstrates how architecture, light and materiality can shape a destination every bit as memorable as the menu itself.

Custom-designed furniture upholstered in textured fabrics reinforces the restaurant’s warm, residential character.

Credits

Photography: Edmon Leong