Called Above, the 26 cover restaurant will open above The Victoria pub in Mile End and is descried as an ‘almost a best-of album’ of the past 20 years ‘but with some guilty pleasures thrown in for good measure’.
Designed as a brightly colourful space serving comfort food, Above will serve an ever-changing menu of some of the dishes the team have most enjoyed cooking. “Twenty years into being lucky to run some incredible venues with amazing people, this is our f**k it restaurant,” is how they describe it.
The restaurant will serve seasonal ingredients, champion trusted suppliers and highlight the relationships that have underpinned two decades of hospitality, according to the founders.
“This is a proud moment for us all and creating a space like this as a celebration has felt like a hobby in addition to a brilliant day job,” says Anthony Pender, founder of the team behind the venues.
“It hasn’t been easy running a restaurant in recent years and in my early years I won’t lie, I had a hell of a lot to learn, being here to celebrate is a massive testament to an incredible team.”
To complement the food, Above will serve a cocktail list inspired by what the team wants to drink.
“We wanted Above to feel like a gathering of friends — a space that’s intimate, colourful and celebratory, where every dish and drink tells a part of our story,” adds Matt Ward, business partner.
“It’s about raising a glass to the people, suppliers and guests who’ve been with us on this journey and without doubt shared in our trial and tribulations.”
Above will be located within east London pub The Victoria, which is known for its extensive seafood offer. It will be open on Friday and Saturday evenings from 5pm.
Above launches on 1 October.
