Evolv Collection to refurbish Orrery in push for Michelin recognition

The Evolv Collection is to close London restaurant Orrery for a refurbishment as part of a project to target Michelin recognition.

It will reopen under the guidance of an as yet unannounced new executive chef as chief executive Martin Williams continues a project to consolidate the group under four core brands.

He told The Caterer earlier this month that the group would focus on what he describes as “the four powerhouse brands of Bluebird, Chop House & Tavern, the Stories Collection and Sartoria”, as well as maintaining standards at the Michelin-starred Angler restaurant at South Place hotel and work on regaining the Michelin-star last held by Orrery in 2000 under chef Chris Galvin.

The refurbishment follows the reopening of the Launceston Place site formerly headed up by Ben Murphy as a Sartoria branded site and the acquisition of Vinoteca restaurant, which will also become part of the Sartoria family.

Williams said: "This is an exciting new chapter for Orrery. After years of delivering exceptional French dining in one of London’s most beautiful restaurant spaces, we’re ready to write the next chapter. Our ambition is clear: to return Orrery to Michelin-starred status while preserving the elegant charm and warm hospitality that our guests love."

He added that the refurbishment would enhance Orrery’s Conran-designed interiors, which feature a mechanical model of the solar system.

The restaurant will remain open until the end of December before reopening early in the new year.