Big Chef : The Gorgeous Kitchen, London
The restaurant, which places emphasis on local British produce, is a collaboration between four British chefs — Gee Charman (former chef at Kensington Palace and right-hand woman of celebrity chefs including The Hairy Bikers, Simon Rimmer and Gordon Ramsay), Sophie Michell (executive chef of Pont St. at Belgraves hotel), Jo Pratt (best-selling author of "In the mood for food" and former food editor of ELLE and Glamour magazine) and Caroline Mi Li Artiss (one of the first chefs to be discovered on YouTube and self-made momtrepreneur). Set within a fast-paced environment that is often more associated with stress, confusion, and fast food, The Gorgeous Kitchen allows guests to escape to a world of tranquility before they even step onto the runway. Having the award-winning design of Jamie’s Italian Gatwick under their belt, meant Blacksheep are no strangers to working within the challenging airport environment. Nathalie Gibbs, Creative Director of Blacksheep commented: “There is still much work to do in improving these environments in terms of the experiences they offer their guests, but the entire regeneration program at T2 is promising as it reflects the shift in this thinking. The Gorgeous Kitchen is just the type of beautiful and indulgent dining experience that travelers today deserve to enjoy before they jet off.”
This notion of space can also be seen throughout the restaurant’s interior, evoking feelings of tranquility, peace and calm; an escape within an escape. The layout of the restaurant itself is based on natural organization and freedom of form. The introduction of delicate copper vinaigrettes help connect the spaces from a central point creating pockets of natural rest. Antique Murano glass shades appear to float effortlessly complimenting the calm atmosphere of the safe haven whilst giving it a certain ethereal quality. The solution provides the ultimate sanctuary for busy travelers to detach themselves from the hustle and bustle of the typical airport environment. A voyage designed to delight the senses and capture the imagination; it draws the guest into the beautiful quiet luxury that is The Gorgeous Kitchen. Walter Seib, CEO of HMSHost International commented: “The Gorgeous Kitchen was born from a vision to provide travelers with a quality restaurant and something never-before-seen. I am thrilled that we are able to bring together the culinary expertise of four incredible local chefs to create this one-of-a kind full service destination restaurant in Heathrow’s new Terminal 2.”
