The Huntsman
The five-red-AA-star, Grade II*-listed Palé Hall hotel in Llandderfel, Gwynedd, has opened its new all-day restaurant as part of a wider refurbishment project. Previously the home of Palé Hall’s formal dining room, the Huntsman (named after the game-inspired antique bar), is a new concept from head chef Gareth Stevenson, offering English classics in a casual, bistro-style environment.
The refurbishment will also involve the addition of four bedrooms and four guesthouses within the estate. Works are expected to be complete by May 2020.
Ampéli
Ampéli is an Eastern Mediterranean restaurant in London’s Fitzrovia, with a wine list curated by Master of Wine Yiannis Karakasis. Front of house is led by Lorraine Abrahams, who previously worked with Corbin & King.
Bar Douro City
Bar Douro has opened a second site in the new Finsbury Avenue development at London’s Broadgate. The space, which is larger than the original, is decorated with hand-painted Portuguese tiles, with an open kitchen, counter seating and a dining room.
Big Fernand
Parisian brand Big Fernand has opened its first UK site in London’s South Kensington, serving burgers as well as a light breakfast menu.
Oklava Bakery + Wine
Selin Kiazim and Laura Christie have launched a new concept on the site of their former restaurant Kyseri in London’s Fitzrovia. The bakery produces Turkish baked goods and Christie has curated a wine list showcasing small producers across Turkey, Armenia, Lebanon, Georgia and Greece.
Peckham Cellars
Helen Hall, Luke West-Whylie and Ben McVeigh have opened a site in London’s Peckham, consisting of a wine bar, restaurant and wine shop. The 80-strong wine list has been curated by sommelier McVeigh, formerly head sommelier at 28-50 Fetter Lane. Hall oversees the kitchen alongside head chef Jay Claus; while West-Whylie leads the front of house team.
Sarap
Filipino-inspired restaurant Sarap has opened in London’s Brixton Village, offering small and large sharing plates, low-intervention wines and Filipino-branded and local craft beers.