The Lowdown: London’s first ‘mindful restaurant’
Ah yes, mindfulness. What’s that again?
It’s the psychological process of bringing one’s attention to experiences occurring in the present moment.
Of course. Can this not be achieved by restaurants simply saying “here is your dinner”?
Apparently not. Yeotown Kitchen founders Mercedes and Simon Sieff are “introducing Londoners to their healthy living ethos, one meditation session at a time”. The pair have just opened a restaurant on Marylebone’s Chiltern Street that’s an extension of their high-profile Devon health retreat Yeotown, which recently received Tatler’s Life Changing Spa Awards (yes, that is a thing).
And what exactly is it?
Healthy food to eat in and takeaway in a space that’s infused with “elements of positive psychology throughout”. Designed by the Dubai-based Brand Creative, the restaurant is bright with clean lines, oak panels and cork leather banquettes. There’s a meditation station downstairs that is free for diners to use with pods that can – it is claimed - boost mood in as little as five minutes. Look out for the ‘thoughtfully integrated’ messages – including ‘take a deep breath’ and ‘accept and move on’ – written on the menus and furniture.
Is it possible to meditate and eat at the same time?
Unclear.
We’re guessing Yeotown Kitchen is a meat and dairy free zone?
Actually no. Dishes include a ‘mindfully-sourced’ salmon wrap, for example. But don’t worry, the menu doesn’t stray too far from the vegan clichés of old. Other menu items include the Yeotown Burger with beluga lentils, caramelised onions, local quinoa (yes, really) and probiotic aioli; and avocado on toast with organic radish and Yeotown’s homemade hot sauce.
And kombucha to drink?
Nope. Turmeric lattes and ‘motivationally minded’ smoothies and juice blends. Options include the Courage Juice, which involves orange blossom, lemon and maple syrup.
I think I’ll need something stronger that...
Sorry. Those that want to get into a different headspace will be directed to the downstairs meditation pods. Yeotown Kitchen is a booze-free zone – even gluten-free, organic, local grain free range beer...
