The Culpeper in Spitalfields, London, recently opened its first floor restaurant kitchen — the four-floor building dates back to 1884 and takes its name from the renowned 17th century herbalist, botanist and physician Nicholas Culpeper. The history of the establishment remains in its aesthetic, with ancient exposed brickwork and large sash windows sitting alongside modern interiors of high-backed wooden Hay chairs, Lee Broom lighting, and a feature marble bar joining the kitchen to the petite dining room. The textures and tones of The Culpeper kitchen work superbly with an array of light, reflective surfaces and striking aqua banquettes — thanks to interiors by Gareth Roberts. Owners Nico Treguer, Gareth Roberts and Bash Redford are avid fans of renovation projects, and fell in love with the dilapidated former Princess Alice boozer. With plans to open the rooftop garden and a greenhouse dining room in the summer, five guest rooms will join The Culpeper’s arsenal soon after.
Chef Sandy Jarvis looks after the kitchen — offering simple, seasonal, daily-changing dishes. Diners can expect a lean towards sharing plates; including meats from the celebrated Ginger Pig, natural wines from Les Caves de Pyrene and homegrown vegetables. Our favourite dish — the red wine-braised squid with lemon, garlic and parsley — was particularly good, rich flavours presented rustically. The choc-chip cookies panna cotta and chocolate sauce, and the Paris-Brest for two were delightful, rich and superb desserts.
We’re eager to see what the partners’ mutual love for renovating London’s rooftops will bring. After all, there’s only so much space in the capital, why not take advantage of those rooftops we so seldom encounter?
Photography, Paul Winch-Furness
