‘Press for Champagne’ button given a makeover

Soho diner deluxe Bob Bob Ricard’s famous “Press for Champagne” button is being given a makeover in time for National Caviar Day on 18 July.

On 18 July, the gold-framed button that puts fizz at diners’ fingertips will be turned into a “Press for Caviar” buzzer for one day only to celebrate National Caviar Day.

Diners will have the chance to enjoy Siberian sturgeon at the push of a button, as every table and booth in the restaurant will be equipped with one of the buzzers.

The caviar can either be eaten straight from the tin, or served with a series of accompaniments, from Jersey rock oysters to salmon tartare with cucumber, fennel and horseradish.

“We may be famous for serving more Champagne than tap water, but caviar is also one of the most popular dishes on our menu. We couldn’t let National Caviar Day pass without some sort of commemoration,” said owner Leonid Shutov.

Shutov plans to open a second restaurant, Bob Bob Exchange, in the City next spring that will feature live fine wine auctions every 30 minutes with wines starting at cost price.

Taking up the third floor of the Leadenhall Building, known as the “Cheesegrater”, the restaurant will include an all-booth dining room and will serve seasonal meat, fish and veg cooked over an open flame or smoked in-house.