Published on
August 22, 2025
Aldo Zilli, a renowned celebrity chef, has joined The Royal Bell in Bromley, UK, for an exciting culinary revival. With his signature Italian flavors, Aldo Zilli will oversee two new dining spots—’Aldo’s Pizza’ and ‘Zilli Caffé’—bringing fresh energy and authenticity to the venue. This move marks the beginning of a bold new chapter for The Royal Bell as it reclaims its place as a culinary hotspot in Bromley. With Aldo Zilli’s expertise, The Royal Bell is set to offer exceptional dining experiences, making it one of the most anticipated culinary destinations in the region.
Aldo Zilli, celebrated for his vibrant personality and deep passion for authentic Italian cuisine, has joined The Royal Bell team as the head chef of these two eateries. Zilli’s name is synonymous with bold flavors, expertly crafted dishes and a dedication to traditional Italian recipes. The upcoming launch of ‘Aldo’s Pizza’ and ‘Zilli Caffé’ will showcase Zilli’s signature style—delivering fresh, handcrafted pizzas and classic Italian favorites with a modern twist. His extensive experience and reputation in the culinary world will no doubt elevate the food offering at The Royal Bell, making it a must-visit location for food lovers.
This appointment marks a pivotal moment in The Royal Bell’s revival, as the venue continues to reclaim its status as a cultural and culinary destination. The venue’s restoration is being led by The Belle Collective, a group of investors with a vision to breathe new life into the historic property, which dates back to 1666. Over the centuries, The Royal Bell has hosted some of the world’s most famous figures, including Queen Victoria, Jane Austen and David Bowie. The current restoration aims to marry the building’s storied past with the vibrancy of modern hospitality.
Alongside Aldo Zilli’s appointment, Michael McDaid has been brought on as the venue’s executive chef. With a career spanning over two decades, McDaid’s impressive resume includes stints at some of the most prestigious establishments in the UK and abroad, including Galvin at Windows, Maze and St John. McDaid’s philosophy centers around using the finest seasonal ingredients to create honest, no-frills dishes that let the produce shine. At The Royal Bell, McDaid will lead the kitchen team and collaborate with Zilli at the two new dining spots, ensuring that the food offering meets the highest standards.
The Royal Bell’s extensive renovation will also feature a range of luxury amenities, making it a highly anticipated addition to Bromley’s hospitality landscape. The venue will include 14 stylish bedrooms, a grand ballroom, co-working spaces, a members-only bar and a range of dining options. Guests will be able to enjoy not only the vibrant flavors of Aldo’s Pizza and Zilli Caffé but also unwind at the café, library, terrace and sports bar. A fitness center will cater to those looking to stay active during their stay, while the venue’s historical charm will continue to shine through in every corner.
The Royal Bell’s transformation is backed by several key investors, including Nick Gold, a serial entrepreneur known for co-founding iconic venues such as China White and The Hippodrome, as well as Mark Goldberg, Jamie Gold and Max Cohen from Shelana Investments. Jon Yantin will oversee the operations at the venue, ensuring that every aspect of the experience is seamlessly integrated. This bold revival signals a new era for Bromley’s hospitality scene. With the combination of world-class culinary expertise, luxury accommodations and a rich historical legacy, The Royal Bell is poised to become a top destination for both locals and tourists seeking exceptional dining and hospitality experiences in the heart of South East London.
