Published 5 September 2022
Catch up on the latest industry news stories of the week from the CODE Bulletin
Tacos are having what might be described as ‘a moment’ in London: La Chingada in Rotherhithe is consistently impressive, and the now eminently famous Kol continues to shine. Another with pedigree, Sonora Taqueria, is opening at Arcade this month, though in a new form. Owners Michelle Salazar de la Rocha and Sam Napier will bring their ‘alter ego’, Mexa, to Centre Point on September 16. It’s been billed as a ‘celebration of the flavours’ that made Sonora such a success, along with new dishes and combinations. ‘Expect quesadillas, tacos and mariscos (seafood) together like you’ve never tried before’, said the team. The seabass ceviche, a recipe passed down through Michelle’s family, is likely to be a standout; cured prawns with salsa negra and cracked chillies, served with totopos, or crunchy, moreish corn chips, is another. The pair said: ‘We’re excited to bring Mexa to Arcade. It’s been a unique opportunity for us to explore the other side of Mexican food and to also introduce our version of Sinaloan Mariscos – a taco shop specialising in seafood in Pheonix, Arizona – which are close to our hearts.’
The cost of living crisis is taking its toll on Britain, and, just as he did in 2008, when the Credit Crunch hit, Tom Kerridge is reacting in dramatic fashion. From Monday September 5, a two-course, week-day lunch will be available for £15 at Kerridge’s Bar & Grill at Corinthia London in Whitehall, the Coach in Marlow, Buckinghamshire, and the Bull & Bear in Manchester. Read more.
The country is well aware of soaring energy bills and their devastating impact on our industry. CODE has learned of a few examples: Gauthier Soho said its annual fee has risen from £25,000 to £160,000 a year; James Allcock, from the Pig & Whistle in Beverley, said the bill at his 22-cover restaurant has climbed from just under £3,000 annually to well over £20,000; at a small café in Leicester, one owner is facing costs of £55,000 in the same period, up from £10,000. Something has to give. We caught up with UKHospitality CEO Kate Nicholls to get an update on what we hope will be an immediate and direct Government response.
The supply chain is also being rocked by rising costs. Mettrick’s abattoir in Glossop, Derbyshire, will close after more than 100 years, Farming UK reported last week. We heard about the news through the much-loved Pack Horse Hayfield, who called the news ‘devastating’ and wrote: ‘We’ve used Mettricks since day one, and it’s been our immense privilege to support them and share their passion for the importance of local food chains and sustainable meat processes.’ Campaigners called the news ‘extremely worrying’ for local farmers.
Raffles London at The OWO has appointed Mark Hastings as its new director of food and beverage. The Grade II-listed building is set to be transformed into a new destination in the heart of Whitehall, with three signature dining experiences from chef Mauro Colagreco, alongside three destination bars. Hastings said: ‘I am absolutely delighted… Working alongside one of the world’s most highly acclaimed chefs and his team, this landmark destination is being transformed into the capital’s most exciting culinary hub.’
Dhwani Agarwal has been named head chef at Farzi Café in London. The Mumbai-born chef will be launching a new, pan-Indian menu at the restaurant next month, and her appointment marks a return to Massive Restaurants after a time away. Agarwal joins Farzi Cafe following a position as head chef at Atul Kochhar’s fine dining fixture Kanishka, in Mayfair. New dishes at Farzi will include avocado and waffle tokri; bhuna goat tacos with pomelo; Mangalorian rava fried prawns; and dal chawal arancini.
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