Our Story
In 1971, L'Artiste Muscle first opened as a French wine bar in the basement of a wine shop at 1 Shepherd Market, when the area was still known as Mayfair's red-light district. This was owned by Frank Hirshfield, a silversmith and former Olympic wrestler (hence the name).
With its mismatched tables, original French posters and serving just a plat du jour, steak, salad, cheese and pate and wine brought over from France in a van, the business took off and the wine bar expanded to the ground floor. The clientele quickly diversified, drawing in a regular crowd of aristocrats, artists, writers, rock stars, and actors. Apple Records hosted a legendary party where Elton John and Ringo Starr took to standing on the tables. Ken Russell was known to hold impromptu auditions for his films over lunch, while Martin Amis made biweekly appearances. Lady Sarah Armstrong Jones was also a regular.
By 1975 Stephen Proffer, whose father knew Frank Hirshfield through wrestling, had become the manager and then agreed with Frank to rent the business, eventually taking it over. L'Artiste Muscle gradually evolved from a wine bar to a restaurant with a full menu of French dishes somehow produced from the miniscule kitchen, eventually properly equipped so that pommes frites can be served with the steak and the moule mariniere.
Now in its sixth decade L'Artiste Muscle still retains its uniquely friendly and eccentric atmosphere (and even some of its original customers). Join us in our current chapter for good food and good times - your table at L'Artiste Muscle awaits!
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you offer vegetarian or vegan options on your menu?
Yes, we offer a variety of vegetarian options to accommodate different dietary preferences. From goat's cheese tart to ratatouille and mushroom risotto, there's something delicious for everyone to enjoy. If you have any specific dietary requirements, please let us know when you visit.
Can I make a reservation for dinner at your restaurant?
Yes, and we highly recommend making a reservation, especially for dinner service, to ensure we can accommodate you and provide the best possible dining experience. You can easily make a reservation through our website or by giving us a call.
Do you have a sommelier to help with wine selection?
Yes, we have a knowledgeable sommelier on staff who can assist you in selecting the perfect wine to complement your meal. Whether you prefer a crisp white wine, a bold red, or a sparkling champagne, our sommelier can recommend the ideal pairing for your taste preferences.
Can I host a private event or party at your restaurant?
Absolutely! Our restaurant is available for private events, parties, and special occasions. Whether you're celebrating a birthday, anniversary, or corporate event, we can customise a menu and dining experience to suit your needs.
Are children welcome at your restaurant?
Yes, children are welcome at our restaurant. We offer a children's menu with kid-friendly options, and our friendly staff are always happy to accommodate families and make sure everyone has an enjoyable dining experience.
Is your restaurant wheelchair accessible?
Yes, our restaurant is wheelchair accessible, and we strive to make sure all of our guests feel comfortable and welcome. If you have any specific accessibility needs or requests, please don't hesitate to let us know, and we'll do our best to accommodate you.
What are your hours of operation?
Our hours of operation vary depending on the day of the week. We are typically open between 12 - 11:30pm, but you can find our specific times on our website or Google Business Profile. We look forward to welcoming you for lunch or dinner at our French bistro and wine restaurant!