Jessen takes charge at Otto Lounge

Danish restaurateur Soren Jessen has taken over the Otto Dining Lounge in Maida Vale, London.

Jessen, who already operates London's Noble Rot in Mayfair and One Lombard Street in the City, said that the takeover was "amicable". The Otto Dining Lounge is managed by Hilary Owen Mold, wife of Noble Rot's chef, Julian.

A minor refurbishment is expected over the next few months and a change of name is planned for the New Year. Jessen said that he wished to retain the integrity of the venue while making it more of a destination eaterie.

Jessen and his business partner, Herbert Berger, who is chef-proprietor of One Lombard Street, hosted this year's Too Many Critics dinner in aid of Restaurants Against Hunger.