Raw food café concept launches in Mayfair
The concept has been brought to the UK by Jesper Rydahl, who opened the first 42°Raw in Copenhagen in 2009. Operated by Kofler & Kompanie - founders of the international Pret a Diner concept - 42°Raw comprises a 30-cover dining area, with space for an additional 60 outside, as well as offering a takeaway service.
“None of the food prepared at 42°Raw is cooked above 42° to ensure that no nutrients are lost during the cooking process,” Ian Palmer, Kofler & Kompanie’s managing director, explained to BigHospitality. “We are changing people’s perceptions that plant-based food is dull and not tasty and we have worked with Michelin-starred chefs to create plant-based dishes that are accessible for all.
“We have a wide range of products that will appeal to most –fresh fruit juices and smoothies, coffee, cakes, biscuits and salads. It is about educating the customer that 100 per cent plant-based eating doesn’t mean that you have to compromise on taste. “
On the menu
Overseen by head chef William Hemming, 42°Raw’s range of dishes include Lasagne - marinated courgette slices layered with a sun-dried tomato sauce, walnuts, parsley pesto, cashew cream and baby spinach; Thai noodles - made with strips of carrot and courgette in a curry sauce with red chili, ginger and coconut oil; and the 42°Raw sandwich - made with rosemary crackers with pumpkin seeds, carrot and Brazil nuts filled with fresh avocado, tomatoes and marinated red onions.
The venue’s interior offers a pared down Scandinavian approach to design, with high black painted ceilings, pale wooden furniture and blackboard menus.
“Mayfair is a very cosmopolitan area of London and the food concept alone will attract those that are interested in healthy and delicious food,” added Palmer. “The fact that we are situated between Old Bond Street and Regents Street is perfect for us and we are very lucky and proud to have use of the terraces of 6 Burlington Gardens.”
Speaking of the potential of rolling out the concept in the UK and worldwide, he said: “Yes, we do plan to roll it out further. We’re currently working on more sites in London and Berlin but 6 Burlington Gardens would continue to operate as the flagship store in London. I believe the concept is also going to New York.”
More information on the new site can be found at www.42raw.co.uk.
