New chops on the Birmingham block
Chophouse champions Blacklock have announced they'll be bringing their popular ‘all in’ chop platters, Sunday roasts and generous servings of white chocolate cheesecake to Birmingham in the autumn. Founded in Soho in 2015, the B Corp group arrived in Manchester in 2024, and their newest 100-cover site overlooking Cathedral Square will bring their count to seven. Sustainably sourced meat from family farmers and butchers Philip Warren in Cornwall will be on the menu along with new suppliers from the Midlands.
A fond farewell to Folkestone favourite
Polly Pleasence and Dave Hart’s Best Local Restaurant The Folkestone Wine Company will close after a final service on 18th May in line with the expiry of their lease. After eight years of trading, they will be closing to 'take a sabbatical, rest and recharge' before their next project. John Dory Wine owner and writer Zeren Wilson credits the assured, joyful local as the reason he relocated to Folkestone in 2019.
New neighbourhood for The Baring team
After finding success with their elegant Islington pub, The Baring, Adam Symonds and chef Rob Tecwyn (former head chef at Dabbous) are replicating their formula south of the Thames with the revival of The Kerfield Arms in Camberwell. The duo, who first met working at The Bull & Last, will launch the new site in April, offering a £12 mid-week lunch special and space for walk-ins and drinkers.
London's latest landmark closures
In London's West End, Hakkasan Hanway Place had its last service after 24 years on Friday 28th February. The other restaurants in the 11-strong Tao Group will remain open, including their flagship Mayfair Hakkasan site. On the same day, over in Chelsea, Taylor Bonnyman’s discreet and eminently civilised Five Fields also shut its doors after 12 years in service.
