Hām is a neighbourhood restaurant, championing produce from small British farms and artisan suppliers, opening its doors this spring in West Hampstead. Its name translates to home in Old English and its menu will use only carefully selected ingredients from the season and soil.
The inspiration behind this concept comes from the passion of independent farmers, fishermen, and cheesemakers. The owners are Rose Tuckey and David Houten and the Head Chef is Matt Osborne. Originally from Melbourne, Australia, Matt’s last position was of Head Chef at Toasted in East Dulwich, from where he will bring the interesting flavour combinations.
The menu will reflect the British kitchen, with a few hints of Matt’s Australian background. The restaurant will serve brunch and dinner, with plates such as crumpets, honeycomb, Westcomb ricotta & pear and Bircher muesli, almonds, Hurdlebrook yoghurt & rhubarb on offer. The starters include dishes like Norfolk quail, artichoke, kombu & watercress or raw beef, English wasabi, ginger & shallots, which can be paired with mains like Cornish Brill, verjus sauce, Pink Fir & mussels and Dexter beef, black sesame, white soy and turnips. Round off the perfect meal with chocolate crémeux, blood orange sorbet & peppermint and a selection of cheese from Mons Cheesemongers & Neal’s Yard Dairy.
“At Hām we are working with small suppliers to create a menu which will showcase the best possible ingredients available. We are working with people who are true craftsmen and women, we want to show people respect for what they passionately produce, with what we put on the plate. Hām will be like a buzzing living room, where friends and family come together to share food and stories,” said Matt.
The interior designers of the restaurant are Rory Macpherson of Play Associates. The venue mixes modern elements with traditional design details, making use of exposed brick walls, powdered sea green leather and velvet banquette seating, curved lines and accents of antique brass. There will also be a bar available for guests to enjoy small bites and drinks.
