12/3/24 - updated with new photos, details and an opening date.
A long time coming (we first wrote about this back in 2022), Larry Jayasekara has finally confirmed details about his first solo restaurant that's opening in Bruton Place, to be called The Cocochine.
Jayasekara was the former head chef of Gordon Ramsay's Petrus and his CV also includes such top-tier restaurants like the Waterside Inn, Michel Bras and Le Manoir aux Quat’Saison. He's teaming up with businessman and gallery owner Tim Jefferies for the opening.
Exact details of the (a la carte) menu are still sparse, but they say it will be inspired by Jayasekara's travels and experiences and will be a "celebration of the joy of eating". They'll be using produce and livestock from regenerative mixed farmland in Northamptonshire which, as it also happens to have its own spring, will provide the water for the restaurant. Also expect produce like a 100% preservative-free, pure coconut cream from Jayasekara's native Sri Lanka.
As for the restaurant itself, it's sounding like a great deal of care has gone into it - we're guessing that being a gallery owner means you know a thing or two about presentation. So there's a specific mention of no table turning at lunch or dinner and talk of tables where lighting casts no shadow. There's also a specially commissioned mosaic on the first floor where you'll find the chef's counter and kitchen (where you can grab a pre-dinner drink if it's not booked). And on the top floor, there's a private hire space where you'll also find original art from Hamiltons Gallery.
It's also another restaurant looking back to a more classic Mayfair approach of dining out and old school hospitality, much like The Dover and Arlington. For instance, they won't be taking any online reservations - it's all done by phone.
All this is in addition to the impressive Rex Deli which the pair have opened across the street, so this is definitely one to watch.
More about The Cocochine
Where is it? 27 Bruton Place, London W1J 6NQ
When? 25 March 2024
Find out more: Follow Larry on Instagram @larry_jayasekara and @thecocochine.
Subscribe to be the first to get the news from Hot Dinners
