64 Old Compton Street: Nima Safei to open sibling to 40 Dean Street

Like the original, the new spot will serve traditional Italian food, and will do so with a “similar vibe,” the Standard was told.

A two minute walk from 40 Dean Street, a Soho favourite for 20 years — and with a cocktail on the menu named for the Standard’s David Ellis — owner Nima Safei said his latest restaurant would be a “cosy spot.”

40 Dean Street is known as something of a “Soho secret”, being publicity shy but attracting a starry crowd. Among the guests known to dine at 40 are actor Rupert Everett, Princess Beatrice and Fawn James, the director of Soho Estates. Brad Pitt has ordered takeaway from the restaurant, despite it not usually offering the service. Owner Safei, celebrated for his exuberance and charm, is a regular fixture across W1.

Press material said the menu at 64 Old Compton Street would be similar to its sister site, but “will be introducing some old classic household dishes such as spaghetti carbonara, homemade beef lasagne, and piadina bread.” Elsewhere on the menu will be meatballs in tomato sauce, pasta with mushrooms, and pizzas.

The site had previously been Leggero, also homely Italian, but most recently was a branch of Clean Kitchen Club, which shut in February after just 18 months trading. The closure was another indication that vegan-only restaurants are falling out of fashion, and followed the decision by Pret to call time on all but two branches of Veggie Pret in December of last year.

64 Old Compton Street, W1D 4UQ, is open now. For more information, visit fortydeanstreet.com