Historic London Private Members' Club Opens Doors to Public with New Café
For the first time in its 104-year history, The Sloane Club in Chelsea is welcoming the general public through its doors. This exclusive private members' club, which typically requires a substantial annual membership fee, has launched Café 1922 – a sophisticated bakery and wine bar accessible to all Londoners and visitors.
A Century of Exclusivity Gives Way to Public Access
Founded in 1922 by Princess Helena, daughter of Queen Victoria and Prince Albert, The Sloane Club has maintained its members-only policy for over a century. While the club's hotel, gym, and sauna facilities remain restricted to members, Café 1922 represents a significant shift in accessibility for this prestigious institution.
The new café occupies prime real estate along Lower Sloane Street, adding another layer of sophistication to Chelsea's already upscale neighborhood. This strategic location allows passersby to glimpse inside what was previously one of London's most exclusive private spaces.
Daytime Delights: Signature Pastries and Artisan Coffee
By day, Café 1922 transforms into a premium bakery and café serving specialty coffee, homemade pastries, breakfast dishes, and light lunch options. The culinary team has created several standout offerings that reflect the club's heritage while introducing contemporary flavors.
The signature creation is the Sloane Pain au Suisse, a pastry inspired by The Sloane Club's iconic Croque Monsieur that has been on the menu since the club's founding. This elevated ham and cheese croissant features béchamel sauce, smoked ham, and a sophisticated blend of comté, emmental, and gruyère cheeses.
"Only a limited number of these signature pastries will be baked daily, so early arrival is recommended for those hoping to sample this exclusive creation," notes the café management.
Culinary Expertise Behind the Scenes
The menu development represents a collaboration between two culinary talents:
- George Scott-Toft, former Sketch chef and current executive chef for The Sloane Club
- Luke Walsh-Landles, head baker who previously worked at Boxcar Bakery in Marylebone
Additional menu highlights include:
- A rotating cookie of the day featuring seasonal ingredients
- Fresh fruit salad breakfast bowls with artisanal presentation
- Homemade focaccia sandwiches and salad bowls for lunch service
Evening Transformation: Natural Wine Bar Experience
As daylight fades, Café 1922 undergoes a complete transformation into an elegant wine bar. The evening experience focuses on natural and low-intervention wines available by the glass, in carafes, or as takeaway bottles.
The space has been designed with large windows that open to the neighborhood, creating an ideal setting for morning people-watching. When weather permits, outdoor tables extending onto Lower Sloane Street will provide perfect spots for enjoying wine in the sunshine.
Future Events and Regular Programming
The Sloane Club plans to host regular events in the new Café 1922 space, though specific details remain under wraps. Initial teasers suggest wine tastings and supper clubs will feature prominently in the programming, offering additional opportunities for public engagement with this historic institution.
Practical Information for Visitors
Following a soft launch on April 1, Café 1922 officially opened on April 7 with the following operating hours:
- Sunday through Tuesday: 7:30 AM to 3:30 PM
- Wednesday through Saturday: 7:30 AM to 8:30 PM
The café transitions from its daytime to evening menu at 5 PM daily, allowing visitors to experience both the bakery and wine bar offerings. Café 1922 is located at 52 Lower Sloane Street, SW1W 8BP, in the heart of Chelsea's prestigious shopping and residential district.
This opening represents a significant moment in London's hospitality scene, bridging the gap between exclusive private clubs and accessible public spaces while maintaining the quality and sophistication associated with The Sloane Club's century-long legacy.
