In a not-so-typical start for a new dining spot‚ Hugh Corcoran - the chef-owner of The Yellow Bittern in north Londonʼs Islington has made some eye-raising comments about his customers dining choices
The small-scale British-Irish bistro (which opened its doors about two weeks ago) follows quite specific rules: its lunch-only‚ cash-only and youʼll need to book your spot via phone or even send a post-card; but thats not whats causing all the buzz
Its now apparently completely normal to book a table for four people and then order one starter and two mains to share and a glass of tap water. Restaurants are not public benches - you are there to spend money
The Belfast-born chef (who got his training in Basque region) co-runs this 18-seat establishment with some well-connected partners:
* Oisin Davies‚ a book-seller
* Lady Frances von Hofmannsthal‚ who runs Luncheon magazine
* Hugh Corcoran himself‚ handling the kitchen
Local food-scene experts dont seem impressed with the lunch-only approach. “If I didnt open weekends my business wouldnt survive“ says Lynsey Coughlan‚ who runs another British-Irish spot in east London. Some suggest the place might work better as a coffee-and-cake spot instead of a full-service restaurant
The chefʼs stance on proper dining etiquette - including expectations to order starters wine and mains - has sparked discussions about restaurant customs in todays economic climate. “If youre not hungry dont go“ Corcoran maintains his position despite mixed reactions from potential customers