Tom Aikens to open 25-cover restaurant in Belgravia

Tom Aikens is opening a 25-cover restaurant in London's Belgravia in December, with a menu inspired by the chef's "fondest food stories and memories".

Muse, a renovated mews house which was previously Pizzeria Pinocchio, will serve a seasonal, "stripped-back" tasting menu with dishes focusing on one key ingredient or element per dish.

The dining space will be split over two floors, both with an open plan theatre kitchen and interiors designed by Rebecca Korner.

Aikens said: "Throughout my life, I have been inspired and influenced by many different people, places, time and travels. From my mother, Tania, who opened my eyes to the infinite pleasures and absolute delights that food can bring – like the very first time I tasted a warm, juicy strawberry or a crisp, sweet pea-pod plucked straight from the ground – to all of those who have guided and supported me throughout my journey, from my initial steps into a kitchen to where I am today. I still carry with me an inherent pride of my Norfolk provenance, alongside the many places that were considered a home-from-home in those early years.

"That's why my new home, Muse, pays homage to all of these and more. To the big and the small things that have had the greatest impact on my life, inside and outside of the kitchen, and that to this day mean the most to me."

Aikens, the youngest chef to gain two Michelin stars - aged just 26 while at Pied à Terre in London, currently runs Tom's Kitchen in Chelsea, as well as Pots, Pans and Boards in Dubai and three outlets at the Abu Dhabi Edition.

Illustration credit: Brodie Williams