Goodman Restaurants launches lobster roll concept

Goodman Restaurants, the Russian steakhouse group behind the thriving Burger & Lobster outfit, is launching a new lobster roll concept in Mayfair.

Opening in early 2014, Lobster Roll Deli will follow Burger & Lobster’s limited menu format, serving lobster rolls and a few other items from the ground and first floor levels of 65 Duke Street.

“Historically, this area was a busy food and drink destination, and we want to restore the site to its former glory by bringing something completely new and unique,” said Goodman’s director George Bukhov.

Goodman Restaurants, which operates 10 steakhouses in Moscow, is also opening Steak & Crab, an ultra-premium offering, in the capital next year.

Burger & Lobster success

The quick success of the debut Burger & Lobster outlet meant it was followed by a second in Soho, a third in Farringdon, a fourth in the City and a fifth in Harvey Nichols.

And the group has just secured a sixth site in Great Portland Street, with the 3,500 sq.ft former Ora Restaurant unit opening in February 2014.

The Duke Street location for the Lobster Roll Deli concept has benefitted from significant improvements over the past 18 months. The thoroughfare that connects the gardens of Grosvenor Square to the shops of Oxford Street has seen various upgrades to the public realm; newly developed apartments for rent and the recent re-launch of Brown Hart Gardens, which now features The Garden Café operated by Benugo.

65 Duke Street has been redeveloped by Grosvenor and now comprises 16 residential apartments for rent and four retail units.

Duke Street development

Helen Franks, head of retail leasing on Grosvenor’s London estate, said: “I am thrilled Goodman has chosen Duke Street to launch its brand new restaurant concept and look forward to the opening in the New Year. 

“The addition to the street reflects our vision to create an exciting mixed-use destination for those that live, work and visit Duke Street and the wider North Mayfair area.

“I look forward to announcing the other retailers that will be joining the lobster roll deli at 65 Duke Street in the coming months.”

Next year Grosvenor will complete the construction of The Beaumont hotel, which will be the first hotel operated by Corbin & King.