Company of Cooks has been appointed as the official bar, restaurant and event partner for Guinness Open Gate Brewery at Old Brewers Yard in Covent Garden, set to open 11 December.
The micro-brewery and culture hub spans 54,000sqft and includes two restaurants, a courtyard with drink and street food options, a private dining room, and event spaces in the Guinness Vaults.
Company of Cooks won the contract in a competitive tender process. Diageo cited the company’s approach to creating food, drink and service experiences at visitor and cultural venues, and its track record of operating venues of scale and complexity.
Its focus on locality, including the London Larder that champions local artisan suppliers, a commitment to British-only cheese and fresh meat, and support of London social enterprises Well Grounded and Luminary Bakery, were also factors in the decision, as well as its event sales and marketing expertise.
Rob Fredrickson, managing director at Company of Cooks, said: “Guinness Open Gate Brewery London is a fantastic cultural addition to the capital, and our values of Craft, Creativity and Community complement its vision perfectly.”
Chef Pip Lacey will head up the brigade, with menus influenced by her seasonal, modern style. The company has also announced a chef collaboration with Calum Franklin, who will create pies to pair with Guinness and other drinks.
Jason Thorndycraft, managing director of Guinness Open Gate Brewery London, commented: “We are delighted to be partnering with Company of Cooks to bring our restaurants, bars and event space to life. Their team shares our belief in the power and goodness of communion, which will anchor everything we do at Guinness Open Gate Brewery London. The welcoming restaurants and bars, and vibrant event space, will all have Guinness DNA running throughout, and we cannot wait to welcome our customers to enjoy them.”