Former Fitzrovia Bank Site Proposed for All-Day Restaurant and Gin Distillery
A historic bank building in Fitzrovia, Central London, could be transformed into a sophisticated all-day dining destination featuring a Levante restaurant, lounge, and micro gin distillery. The ambitious proposal by Fitzrovia Operations Limited aims to breathe new life into the vacant property on Charlotte Street, though it has already sparked significant opposition from local residents concerned about noise and late-night disturbances.
Dila: A New Culinary Destination
The proposed venue, to be named Dila, would operate as a comprehensive hospitality establishment combining multiple elements under one roof. According to the application, it would function as a Levante restaurant and lounge, a wine bar, and a micro gin distillery where patrons could observe the distillation process. The concept promises a "relaxed and refined" atmosphere where customers can enjoy breakfast, lunch, and dinner throughout the day.
If approved, Dila would also feature a terrace space designed for al fresco dining, allowing guests to experience outdoor meals in the heart of Fitzrovia. The operating hours are extensive, with plans to open from 7am until midnight Monday through Thursday, extending to 12:30am on Fridays and Saturdays, and operating from 7am until 11pm on Sundays.
Licensing Application and Resident Opposition
Fitzrovia Operations Limited has submitted a formal application to Westminster City Council for an alcohol license, emphasizing that service would primarily be table-based except during specific private standing events. The applicant argues that the proposed hours align with Westminster's Core Hours Policy and notes that the premises is not located within a Cumulative Impact Zone, which typically restricts new alcohol licenses.
However, the proposal has met with strong resistance from local residents and neighborhood associations. The Fitzrovia Neighbourhood Association has requested that outdoor seating be cleared by 10pm each evening to "minimise nuisance to the residents." Meanwhile, the Charlotte Street Association has formally objected, citing concerns about noise pollution and the cumulative impact of adding another alcohol-serving venue to the area.
"The application site has never held a premises licence before. Previously it operated as bank. Adding yet another venue selling alcohol would have a cumulative impact and have a negative effect by way of noise nuisance on the amenity of nearby residents particularly in Charlotte Street and Rathbone Street itself but also for those living in Colville Place," wrote a representative for the Charlotte Street Association in their official objection.
Developer's Vision and Community Concerns
In a report prepared by Thomas & Thomas Partners LLP, representing the applicant, the vision for Dila is described as "a welcoming, all-day neighbourhood restaurant and bar serving breakfast, lunch and dinner in a setting that feels both relaxed and refined." The developers emphasize that their goal is to create "a warm and approachable environment where guests can enjoy high-quality food and hospitality throughout the day, without the venue operating as a late-night drinking destination."
Despite these assurances, residents remain skeptical about the potential for noise disturbance, particularly given the proposed late closing times on weekends. The site's previous use as a bank means it has no history of operating as a licensed premises, adding to community concerns about how the new establishment might affect the residential character of the surrounding streets.
Decision Pending from Westminster Council
The application was reviewed by Westminster City Council's Licensing Committee on March 19, 2026. According to standard procedures, a final decision is expected within five working days of that meeting date. The outcome will determine whether Fitzrovia gains a new culinary destination or whether resident concerns about noise and neighborhood character will prevail in this ongoing debate about urban development and community impact.
This case highlights the continuing tension between commercial development and residential quality of life in Central London neighborhoods, particularly in areas like Fitzrovia where historic buildings are increasingly being repurposed for hospitality uses. The decision will set an important precedent for how Westminster balances economic development with community concerns in one of London's most vibrant districts.
