The team behind the celebrated Borough Market restaurant Camille is set to open a second venue in Farringdon this autumn. Moving into the historic former home of Club Gascon at 57 West Smithfield, the new establishment promises to bring a fresh culinary direction to the area, shifting away from the French bistro style of its original location.
Since opening its doors in February 2024, Camille has garnered significant acclaim, even securing a spot in the top 20 of the National Restaurant Awards. The original venue, known for its high-quality plates and zero-waste philosophy, has become a staple for food enthusiasts near London Bridge, alongside other notable upcoming openings like the Coppa Club riverside flagship. Now, the team is preparing to expand its footprint with a concept that delves deep into the culinary heritage of the British Isles.
A New Culinary Direction
While the Borough Market site is celebrated for its French-inspired dishes, the Farringdon location will take a distinctly different approach. Head chef Elliot Hashtroudi, drawing strong influence from his grandmother, will focus on old regional British and Irish cooking. The menu will celebrate Victorian traditions and regional cuisine, utilising ingredients sourced from across the Isles.
Hashtroudi is well-known for his commitment to “whole carcass” butchery, ensuring that as much of the animal as possible is used in his cooking. This nose-to-tail ethos, which has seen dishes like snout cassoulet feature prominently at the original Camille, is expected to continue at the new venue. Diners can anticipate a menu that is both inventive and deeply rooted in historical British and Irish culinary practices.
Revitalising a Historic Space
The choice of location for the new restaurant is significant. 57 West Smithfield was previously home to Club Gascon, a Michelin-starred institution that operated for nearly three decades before closing earlier this year. The site, a converted Lyon’s Tea House, holds a storied place in London’s dining scene, making it a fitting home for a team known for their culinary ambition.
For Londoners, the opening of this new venue represents an exciting addition to the city’s vibrant food landscape. The focus on regional British and Irish cooking aligns with a growing appreciation for local ingredients and traditional recipes. As the team prepares for the autumn launch, anticipation is building for what promises to be a unique and compelling dining experience.
What to Expect
Although the final menu is yet to be revealed, the combination of Hashtroudi’s innovative approach to offal and the rich culinary traditions of the British Isles suggests a dining experience that will be both challenging and rewarding. The new restaurant will not simply be a replication of the Borough Market success, but a distinct entity with its own identity and flavour profile, adding to the area’s rich culinary tapestry much like the landmark Dishoom site in the Hop Exchange.
As the opening date approaches, food lovers across the capital will be watching closely. The expansion of the Camille team into Farringdon is a testament to their success and a clear indicator of their ambition to continue shaping London’s culinary narrative. For those eager to explore the depths of British and Irish cooking, this new venue is sure to be a must-visit destination.
