In a capital city that thrives on connections and conversation, the humble business lunch has made a grand return. Once a staple of corporate culture, this midday ritual had nearly vanished, a casualty of the pandemic and the rise of remote work.
But as 2023 unfolded, something remarkable happened – the business lunch began to reemerge, with bookings platforms such as OpenTable noting a distinct uptick in bookings not just in London, but across the country. This was just the beginning…
Revival
The real renaissance of the business lunch, however, is now in full swing as companies like ASOS, Barclays, Boots, Deutsche Bank and more have rolled back their remote working policies, summoning employees back to the heart of London. This return to the office has ignited a renewed appetite for midday dining, with professionals once again seeking out the perfect lunch spot to discuss deals, ideas, and the latest industry buzz.
According to OpenTable, lunchtime reservations have surged across the UK, with a 9% increase at 12pm and an 11% rise at 1 pm between January and June of this year compared to the same period last year.
One of the venues at the forefront of this revival is Plume in Covent Garden, which has seized the moment with its latest offering: the "Power Hour" lunch. Tailored to the needs of today's professionals, this menu is a masterclass in efficiency and indulgence, combining the best of both worlds – a quick, high-quality meal that doesn’t sacrifice flavour or style.
Power Hour
For less than £15, Plume has introduced a choice of delectable dishes inspired by the bustling streets of New York City, where the business lunch has always been a cherished tradition. Options include the iconic Golden Boy or Bacon Boy sandwiches, a hot honey halloumi that melts in your mouth, or a hearty beef or aubergine flatbread, each served with a side of crispy chips or a fresh salad.
To complement the meal, a glass of wine is included, and true to the spirit of a power lunch, all dishes are served within 20 minutes. Plume even promises a complimentary glass of wine if your meal takes any longer, ensuring that your lunch break is as efficient as it is enjoyable.
A Response to the Times
Rob Wade, Head of Food at Plume, understands the delicate balance of productivity and pleasure that today's lunch crowd seeks. “We’ve noticed a shift among the younger demographic – there’s a move towards moderation, with less focus on boozy lunches,” he observes. “However, the appreciation for a well-crafted cocktail or a fine glass of wine during lunch remains strong.”
Wade sees the Power Hour as more than just a menu; it’s a response to the times. “As time becomes increasingly valuable, and the demand for lunches grows, there’s a sense of urgency in the air – perhaps driven by concerns over job security amidst the ongoing cost of living crisis. We’ve crafted an affordable yet high-quality selection that caters to this need, and we’re watching the market’s reaction with great interest.”
In a world where every minute counts, Plume’s Power Hour and other businesses responding with similar offerings reflects people's post-Covid expectations where we connect, savour, and, perhaps, seal the next big deal. The business lunch is back, and it’s better than ever.