London outpost of Paris restaurant Frenchie due in 2016
French restaurateurs Greg and Marie Marchand have announced plans to open a London outpost of their Frenchie restaurant, their first site outside of Paris.
Located on Henrietta Street, the two-floor Frenchie Covent Garden will open in February 2016.
The husband and wife team are behind Frenchie, Frenchie Wine Bar (Frenchie Bar à Vins), Frenchie to Go and, most recently, the Wine Shop (Frenchie Caviste), all located in the garment district of the French capital.
The name Frenchie comes from the nickname garnered by chef Greg Marchand when working at Jamie Oliver's Fifteen in London.
The menu at Frenchie Covent Garden will echo the Paris original, featuring simple bistro dishes using mostly British-sourced and seasonal ingredients and referencing Marchand's experiences at kitchens around the world, including Danny Meyer's Gramercy Tavern in New York and the Savoy Grill in London.
House-smoked meat and fish will be served alongside a changing drinks list with a focus on artisanal old world wines, craft beers and a short but seasonal cocktail menu.
In contrast to his Paris restaurant, where Marchand showcases only British cheeses from Neal's Yard Dairy in a nod to his years spent in London, Frenchie Covent Garden will offer a selection of French cheeses.
Set designer Emilie Bonaventure is responsible for the design of the two-floor site, which will feature whitewashed walls and exposed brickwork as well as brass, copper and zinc accents, and leather banquettes and seats.
The basement space, with open kitchen, can be configured to accommodate larger group dining or individual tables, with several seats at the open kitchen. Upstairs, 18 seats at the bar will be reserved for walk-ins.