Claridge's Kitchen Supper Series Featuring Chef Merlin Labron-Johnson

For anyone gripped by the latest season of The Bear, or any other fast-paced culinary TV drama for that matter, getting a front-row seat at a top chef's table is not to be missed. This month, Claridge's invites you to do just that as part of its ongoing Kitchen Supper Series. The storied hotel will invite a select group of leading UK chefs featured in the renowned restaurant bible The Good Food Guide, to take over its hallowed kitchens for the night to create their own unique menu. 

The lineup includes Merlin Labron-Johnson, chef and owner of Osip – a farm-to-table restaurant in Bruton, Somerset that was awarded a Michelin Green Star in 2023. Labron-Johnson's takeover of Claridge's kitchen takes place on Monday 29 September. But before he picks up the hotel's heavy-duty pots and pans and gets to work, we asked him to share his favourite dining spots and luxury shops in and around Bond Street.

How excited are you to bring your cooking style to Claridge’s Kitchen Supper Series? 

Being able to bring what we do at Osip – which is so unique to Somerset – to London just for one day and transport the concept to a wider audience is so exciting. Also, Claridge's has always been a huge landmark for me, and I am really excited to be cooking there.

Where is the best Mayfair locale to enjoy a late summer lunch this September – preferably with an outdoor terrace? 

I love Noble Rot Mayfair. It's got a fantastic wine list, with a selection of fine and rare wines that you can, unusually, order by the glass. It’s thanks to their Coravin system, a wine preservation system that lets you pour wine without removing the cork. And the food is consistently brilliant. I like to sit outside on the terrace, people-watching. 

Is there a particular fashion item that you would shop for on Bond Street?

I've got a bit of a thing for Prada boots, specifically the military style in black, which I get the most wear out of when I come to London.

Where is your favourite Mayfair cocktail spot and what do you usually order? 

I tried a martini at The Connaught Bar a few months ago, and not only was the martini excellent, but the whole experience was very special

Where is the hottest table in Mayfair at the moment?

I’m always very partial to Hélène Darroze at The Connaught. I think she’s an amazing chef, so I love eating at her restaurant.  

Besides yourself, who are the chefs putting farm-to-table ingredients at the heart of their menus?

I had a brilliant meal at Cocochine on Bruton Place a few weeks ago and met chef Larry Jayasekara, who was great. I think what they’re doing there is brilliant – mainly because most of their produce comes from their own farm, which is something I really believe in. 

If you could have breakfast anywhere in Mayfair, where would it be and what would you order? 

I’d go to The Wolseley for an omelette Arnold Bennett, a classic that never disappoints! 

*Tickets for Claridge's Kitchen Supper Series are available for individual guests or groups to book via the Claridge’s website. Pricing per dinner will vary. Claridge's, Brook Street W1K 4HR