History

Green’s... in the West End

The name comes from an old City wine merchant, Simon Parker Bowles’ trade before he created this West End restaurant in 1982. It is one of the West End’s longest running productions and still playing to packed houses. This is a British institution that serves world class food. Simple well presented dishes that everyone likes that allow you to have meaningful conversation. We want our customers to enjoy their fish or meat for what it is, rather than for what it has become.

Discretion, comfort and old-fashionedness.

Green’s... in the City

Our premises, The Black Horse House, dates back to 1677, and has a history of occupants plying the trade of goldsmiths and bankers. The Grade II listed banking hall as it now stands was built in 1930 and was the home of Lloyds bank until 2003 (the Lloyds black horse moniker was taken from a mosaic laid into the floor, which is still here today).

In September 2009 it re-opened its door to City traders and bankers again, albeit under the guise of a restaurant, bar and events space to work, entertain or celebrate. Unusual coincidence, an ancestor of Simon Parker Bowles (the founder of Green’s), seven generations Simon’s senior, once occupied the Black Horse House in 1734. What’s the odds on that?

The Runner at Green’s... in the City

The Runner has a history across City trading floors and banks. Green’s has always been a congenial place to while away a few hours, to eavesdrop on informed “Turf” intelligence and catch-up on ante-post “betting”. The Runner Bar in the City continues this history.

Owners

Abelines S. Geldenhuys and family

A chartered accountant and corporate financier by background, Abelines took over the running of Green’s in 2010. South African born, with family roots in politics, religion, interior design and mining, Abelines moved to the UK in 2001 with his Cheshire wife, an artist and chef.

Simon Parker Bowles

A former Coldstream Guard, Simon has had a long career in the wine and restaurant industries. Simon established The Greenhouse Wine Company in 1973 and founded Green’s in 1982. Simon is a supporter of the Arts and a keen racing enthusiast.

Lord Daresbury

Lord Daresbury is a well known City name, with board positions across mining, technology, property and art antique companies. Corporate interests are balanced with interest in farming and racing – Peter, a former champion amateur jockey, is Chairman of Aintree Racecourse, the home of the Grand National, the most famous race in the world.

Lord Vestey

Served as a Scots Guard, businessman and Chairman of the international food products business Vestey Group. Chairman of the Royal Agricultural Society of the Commonwealth, Lord Vestey farms 3,000 acre Stowell Park in Gloucestershire. Lord Vestey holds the ceremonial office of the Sovereign as Master of the Horse and is former Chairman of Cheltenham, home of the Gold Cup.