Former Issac At somm launches Brighton deli and wine bar
Launched last week, Meat Bread Wine offers finish-at-home meals, deli items and elevated deli-style sandwiches alongside a contemporary wine list that is focused on overlooked regions.
Preston oversaw the wine list at Isaac At throughout its eight-and-a-half year run and will continue to manage the wine list at Embers, the Brighton restaurant launched by Bartlett-Copeland and former Food for Friends chef Dave Marrow earlier this year.
Barney is also a familiar face within Brighton & Hove's food and drink scene having held senior roles at The Craft Beer Co. and Brewdog. She will continue in her current role as food and beverage director for Brighton Dome.
Largely built build by Preston himself, Meat Bread Wine will retain a similar layout to Isaac At and will seat around 20 covers.
Preston is most associated with wines from these shores having presided over an exclusively-English wine list at Isaac At but both Embers and this latest project will offer wines from all over the world.
In a nod to the Gloucester Street building's heritage, the deli-sandwiches take their names from popular baby names from the 1860s.
Averaging out at £8, options include The Roberta (a take on a Reuben); and The Arrabella (tuna mayonnaise, smoked cheddar, pickles, house relish and capers); The Maggie (deli meats, pickle, lettuce, mayonnaise and mustard).
"We figured that it would be easier if every sandwich had a name. We make all the sandwiches in front of everyone," Preston says. "On top of that we have a nice selection of cured meats and cheeses."
"We are using good ingredients but we also want to make sure we are offering good value for money. We have spent a lot of time at coffee shops looking at pricing. On average you're looking at £9 to £12 for a coffee and a sandwich. We are able to undercut that by offering great quality filter coffee for £1.50."
