Islington Fish & Chip Shop changes name to Vintage Salt
The Fish & Chip Shop in Islington, north London, from restaurateur Des McDonald (pictured), has changed its name to Vintage Salt.
The new name, which was confirmed today, comes from McDonald's restaurant pop-up of a similar title, On the Roof with Vintage Salt, which opened in department store Selfridge's in May and has served over 500 covers per day since.
It is also aiming to convey a slight change in direction for the brand, which first opened as a "posh fish and chips" shop and is now aiming to become a more sophisticated seafood restaurant and bar.
The name change also coincides with the announcement of Brian Mbabazi as new head chef.
He brings previous experience from restaurants the Ivy and Bob Bob Richard, and will now work with the group's executive chef Lee Bull. He intends to continue the menu's use of sustainable haddock, but is also expected to introduce Cornish meat and fish, including dishes such as roasted cod with sorrel sauce and sea purslane.
Des McDonald said: "The name change to Vintage Salt is the next logical step for the Fish & Chip brand. It is more reflective of what the Upper Street restaurant has become and will continue to evolve too, especially as we look to expand and open further Vintage Salt restaurants outside of London. I'm delighted to welcome Brian to the group; he will be driving force behind the name change and new menu."
On the Roof with Vintage Salt was the third Selfridge's pop-up from Des McDonald Restaurants, and followed On the Roof with Q in 2014, and Le Chalet from October.
Created by former head chef of the Ivy and former chief executive of Caprice Holdings, Des McDonald, the eponymous restaurant consultancy is also behind London restaurants the Holborn Dining Room, and the Q Grill.
Vintage Salt to be third Selfridge's pop-up for Des McDonald group >>
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