Raphael Francois joins Launceston Place as chef patron
The Belgian joins the D&D London restaurant from a role as executive chef at Le Cirque in New York.
Francois previously worked alongside Helene Darroze at the five-star Connaught Hotel in London, leaving in 2012 after Darroze's eponymous restaurant was awarded two Michelin stars in 2011.
For his new role at Launceston Place the chef has created a menu celebrating British produce, with dishes including Scallop with Parmesan, Beets and Truffle Melanosporum and Poached Baby Apple with Pecan Parfait and Maple.
David Loewi, D&D London’s managing director said, “We are absolutely delighted that Raphael will be heading up Launceston Place. He is an incredibly talented chef and his natural flair in the kitchen, expertise and passion for food will certainly bring something very special to D&D London.”
Launceston Place also announced that it has redesigned its Chef’s Office private dining room, in which Francois will serve up to 12 guests a bespoke menu matched with wines.
The South Kensington restaurant is set in an 1839 townhouse and was awarded its first Michelin star in 2012. Allen, head chef for three years, left last September for an executive chef role at The Wild Rabbit in the Cotswolds.
