Chef Tom Cenci made head of food for 26 Grains and Stoney Street restaurant

the tough times caused by Covid haven't dampened Tom Cenci's ambitions, as the chef has landed the role of Head of Food at both 26 Grains at Neal’s Yard in London’s Covent Garden and its sister restaurant Stoney Street in Borough Market.

In an interview with The Staff Canteen, the former executive chef at The Duck and Waffle said he was “left jobless” after Covid, and the multiple lockdowns caused his previous restaurant, Loyal Tavern in London’s Bermondsey, to fold. 

The chef then posted an ad on social media saying that he was interested in doing a collaboration with a venue, restaurant or another chef. This led to him being put in touch with Alex Hely-Hutchinson, the owner of 26 Grains and Stoney Street.

This led to a year-long residency at Stoney Street, and now, to the role of Head of Food at both Stoney Street and 26 Grains.

Hoping to take the offering at both sites to what he calls "another level", the Christmas period in the context of Covid means that things remain uncertain.

“With the pandemic out there, things still aren’t full,” he said. For the time being, the focus will be “just making sure we get through Christmas [and] have a successful Christmas.”

The chef does have plans in mind for the new year, namely progressing the brand and moving towards all day dining.

He said: “They’re very well-known for their breakfasts [and] their brunches,” but he would like to “give it more of an identity as all day dining.” With the launch of the Christmas menu coming later on in November, it seems like the brand is well on its way to achieving it.