New York restaurant group Altamarea and Will Guess to open Chop Shop in London
New York restaurant business the Altamarea Group has teamed up with former Rowley's director Will Guess to open its first European venture in London.
Chop Shop, a butcher-shop inspired restaurant, is expected to open on Haymarket in September.
Founded in 2012, Altamarea Group comprises eight restaurants across the USA and one outpost in Hong Kong, each designed to have a personality and concept tailored to its location.
The group's owner Ahmass Fakahany met Guess, who had previously worked at Cubitt House (then 101 Pimlico) and finally as director at Rowley's, earlier this year when they conceived the idea for Chop Shop. Their aim is to combine British and New York experience to create an "intimate, neighbourhood-style, well-priced concept".
Ahmass commented: "Chop Shop is Altamarea's first venture in Europe, and one which marks an additional dimension for the group.
"I have always been a firm believer in investing in young talent and meeting Will provided the springboard to launch a local on-ground concept with some New York influence supported by our culinary talent."
The menu at Chop Shop will be divided into "jars" of meat and fish pâtés, "planks" offering a selection of cheese or charcuterie to share and "crocks" full of baked meatballs and gratins. It will also offer steaks and chops, including US Department of Agriculture (USDA) fillet, hanger and sirloin steaks alongside other various meats served on the bone.
House cocktails served at the bar will take inspiration from both New York and London and will include the Haymarket, a version of the Manhattan, combining Buffalo trace bourbon, Dolin sweet vermouth and pink clove.
The interiors of the two-floor site have been designed by Stuart Taylor at 44th Hill. The 58-cover ground floor will feature distressed dark wood panelling, exposed whitewashed brick walls and reclaimed tiles.
Guess, now UK director of the Altamarea Group, said: "There are many great steak restaurants in London, however at Chop Shop we aim to provide a spirited environment offering carefully sourced meat, not just beef, predominantly on the bone, maintaining quality but ensuring the price point is still accessible."
The Crown Estate, owners of the building where Chop Shop will be based as well as around 50% of the property in St James's, is delivering a £500m, 10-year investment programme for the area that aims to create a new destination for shopping and dining in London's West End.
