Gezellig to open first restaurant in Holborn

Gezellig, named from a Dutch word best translated as “an atmosphere which allows good times to happen”, is to launch following a pop-up at Carousel London in May 2017.

Mascarenhas is the co-owner of Michelin-starred Elystan Street with Philip Howard, among a number of other restaurants while Long's CV includes head chef L’Autre Pied and a spell at Elystan Street. 

The quartet is completed by sommeliers Wieteke Teppema (Trinity, Viajante) and James Comyn (Pied à Terre). 

“We wanted to get together to create the food we like to eat, the wine we like to drink, and the relaxed atmosphere where we would be happy to spend all of our time,” says Comyn.

“As much as Gezellig will be about great food, we do also want to craft a bit of a drinking den.”

Long’s food is described as “classically based with influences from throughout Europe”. Dishes from the launch menu include crisp veal sweetbread slider with truffle coleslaw in a brioche bun; brandade ravioli with a ragù of octopus, red pepper and aïoli; and roast loin of suckling pig sharing plate, crispy belly and braised shoulder, with anchovy, monks beard and jansson's temptation.

The 50-cover restaurant is to open on the site of the former Holborn Town Hall, and will also contain a bar and a private dining room.

The wine list is expected to feature approximately 350 bins, starting from £25 for a bottle and £5 for a glass.

“We are all wine lovers, and our list will be priced to be drunk and enjoyed,” says Teppema.

“We are looking at lots of fine wine but without the high price tags.”