It’s all change in one of York’s most imposing buildings after it was given a major makeover.
The flagship Pizza Express branch inside Grade II-listed River House has been closed for a while for its refurbishment.
But the restaurant has now reopened, and its new look has a gentleman’s club vibe with framed artwork and even a sculpted brogue shoe.
This is in reference to the 1868 building’s former role as the Yorkshire Club.
New features
Settle seating and a new meet and greet area with leather seating have been added.
New floor lamps, neon fireplace flame lights and grand chandeliers have been installed with the intention of providing more subtle lighting, to complement the listed oak panelling of the central dining rooms.
Copper pendants and pot displays are also part of the new decor. Even the posh Victorian toilets have been restored.
The reopening has created 15 new jobs at the 3,875 sq ft restaurant.
Restaurant manager Ben Hicks said:
To mark the reopening the staff welcomed a group of 20 children from St Barnabas Primary School in York.
The pupils, aged from four to 11, learned how to make their own Italian pizza during their visit.
