Danny Meyer's Shake Shack to open in London
The London restaurant will open in the Market Building in Covent Garden next summer, close to Jamie Oliver's new Union Jack's restaurant, where it will serve Shake Shack's signature 'all natural burgers', flat-top dogs and frozen custard alongside some new dishes created specially for the London market.
Meyer, who has earned a reputation as an innovator in the hospitality industry for his approach to his restaurants and staffing, was in the UK at the beginning of the year where he addressed delegates at the Master Innholders Conference.
He spoke then about his love of the UK's food scene with rumours starting that the restaurateur was on the look-out for a site for a London outpost.
“For some time now an enormous number of friends in London have asked when we would bring our first restaurant to the city. We looked high and wide for just the right time and spot, and at last I think we’ve found it in Covent Garden," he said. "I am humbled and at the same time excited to bring Shake Shack to the UK and to become part of the incredible London dining scene.”
Shake Shack growth
Shake Shack started life as a hot dog cart in New York's Madison Square Park in 2001 before becoming a permanent stand there in 2004. There are now 18 Shake Shacks in the US and two in the Middle East with the brand earning a cult-like following across the world.
The London restaurant will extend out into the glass atrium at Covent Garden's Piazza with outdoor seating also offered along the market's South Row.
Meyer said Shake Shack London will 'uphold USHG’s commitment to the environment' and will feature recycled and sustainable materials, as well as energy-efficient kitchen equipment and lighting throughout the space.
