A Hot Dinners exclusive:
(Updated with prices and more booking details)
We'll have to admit to total partiality when it comes to London's hottest young chefs the self-dubbed Young Turks, James Lowe and Isaac McHale. It's no secret that we think they're two of the rising talents in town and, more importantly, they've been responsible for some of the best dishes we've eaten this year. So far, the only chance to experience their food has been at pop ups such as Nuno Mendes' Loft Project or Frank's Cafe. But now they've finally taken on a project which should give more Londoners the chance to try them out.
From 1st November, the Young Turks will take over the first floor of the infamous Jack the Ripper pub, the Ten Bells on Commercial Street. Their restaurant - as yet unnamed will be open for three whole months this time. They're hoping to seat 30 people in the space, plus another 12-16 in a private dining area. In the manner of many a New York speakeasy, diners will be required to get past the pub's punters downstairs to reach the upstairs room which is going for a private members' club vibe. As with previous Young Turks events, the front of house will be managed, in we presume their usually excellent way, by the Clove Club.
The restaurant wil offer a set four course menu with a few extra snacks. James Lowe told us "the menu will change every week, just to make it more difficult, and more fun for us! There will be wines on the list to match by the glass and there will be a small list with low mark ups as well." So there will be plenty of reasons for a return visit.
For people wanting a little more attention from the Young Turks or out for a special occasion, there will also be a private dining room on the second floor which will seat between 12 and 16 people. Expect a slightly different menu for the private room with a few more courses and a more intimate vibe.
James and Isaac are hoping to run four dinners a week and one lunch - possibly expanding when they see how things go. The kitchen was still being finished when we went to press, so they won't be taking bookings until that's complete, but they're hoping to open on 26th October. Bookings will be taken a couple of weeks at a time via a new website and as soon as we hear it's all up and running, we'll let you know on Twitter (and we'll update this news story).
This is bound to be one of town's hot tickets for the rest of the year (the private dining room in particular would make a top Christmas dinner venue for smaller groups).
Booking is open now on 0753 0492986, with prices set at a very reasonable "£39 for several snacks and four-courses." Visit the website for more details.
Photo by Per-Anders Jorgensen
