Hospitality veteran Adrian Martin, who previously oversaw member’s clubs Annabel’s and Harry’s Bar, has replaced William Hemming at one of the capital’s oldest restaurants.
Hemming spearheaded Simpson's relaunch in July 2017, but left earlier this year.
Simpson’s dates back to 1828 was one of the first restaurants in the UK to win a Michelin star in 1974. Famous for its domed silver carving trolleys and stubbornly British dishes, its star waned considerably over the past 40 years - prompting its owners and neighbours The Savoy to overhaul the restaurant and menu last year.
The update received mixed reviews. “I can’t love Simpson’s any more, however much I try,” mourned Jay Rayner in The Observer. While in the Evening Standard David Ellis was adamant that “the old Simpson’s is back” and praised the food, wine and service that was “better than it’s been in decades”.
Martin’s appointment means the menu looks to be getting a further refresh. The chef has cooked at The Ivy, Scott’s of Mayfair, and previously ran Right on the Green near Tunbridge Wells.
Simpson’s says he will “bring a new lightness to the menu” and “contemporary flair to well-loved British classics”.
“[It] is an honour to be part of the restaurant’s illustrious history and I look forward to creating a Bill of Fare that pays homage to the bounty of the British Isles,” says Martin.