LONDON / Oct. 22, 2001-- The much anticipated new restaurant, Gordon Ramsay at Claridge's, opened today in one of London's most celebrated hotels. Known for his distinctive "modern European" cuisine, Gordon Ramsay is the only three-star Michelin chef in London.

The restaurant occupies space formerly known as Claridge's Restaurant, a favored dining room for influential and discerning guests from around the world. This new culinary development is a natural progression in Claridge's commitment to excellence in all facets of the guest experience. Claridge's has long been synonymous with style, elegance and the highest standards of hospitality.

The design of Gordon Ramsay at Claridge's has been orchestrated by the noted interior designer/architect Thierry Despont and represents the final phase of an exciting art deco revival of the hotel's ground floor including the Front Hall, Foyer and Reading Room completed earlier this year with input from English Heritage. For inspiration, Claridge's has chosen to preserve many of the existing art deco features developed by Oswald Milne following Basil Ionides' decorative work for Claridge's Restaurant in the 1930s. Gordon Ramsay was fully involved in the process including the selection of china, cutlery, glassware and uniforms to complement the overall atmosphere and appearance of the Thierry Despont design.

Gordon Ramsay was recently awarded three Michelin stars for his restaurant at 68 Royal Hospital Road in Chelsea which will remain open. He is one of only two chefs in Britain and the only chef of British nationality with this distinction. "Gordon Ramsay at Claridge's," is expected to achieve new heights in culinary excellence featuring its own exclusive menus at both lunch and dinner seven days a week.

Why would Gordon Ramsay be interested in this new venture with Claridge's? "Quite simply, this is the best address in London," says Ramsay. Christopher Cowdray, General Manager of Claridge's, adds "Our guests expect the best from Claridge's and Gordon Ramsay is the greatest chef that the United Kingdom has to offer!"

Claridge's is part of the distinguished Savoy Group of Hotels and is located on Brook Street in the heart of Mayfair. The direct number for "Gordon Ramsay at Claridge's" is 44-207-499-0099. Guests also can call The Savoy Group's toll-free reservation number, (800) 63-SAVOY.