142 FOOD & DRINK
AN INTERVIEW WITH ED TEMPLETON
- THE VISIONARY BEHIND AWARD-WINNING CREATIVE HUB CAROUSEL LONDON
Credit : Joe Okpako
Q . What was your inspiration for creating such a unique venue ?
This new Carousel on Charlotte Street is the natural evolution of everything we were doing at the original site for seven years . The wine bar was the missing piece - a platform for us to connect the different strands of the business and to showcase our own creativity - but the idea of inviting chefs from around the world to cook with us has been the same since day one , and it still feels as fresh as ever . We wanted to give Londoners a new and exciting dining experience every single week that they wouldn ’ t find anywhere else in the capital , and in doing so , create a thriving community of chefs and restaurants who share the same values .
Q . Carousel has guest residences from some of the world ’ s leading chefs , how important is it that each chef brings their own creative flair , ideas and concept to the venue for their residence ?
That ’ s the whole idea of Carousel . No two weeks here are ever the same and that ’ s how we like it . As the residencies are always a collaboration with our team - both in the kitchen and front of house - there are , however , only so many variables . The restaurant has its own identity and its own regulars , so the set-up and style of service remain pretty much the same , irrespective of who ’ s cooking . As do the suppliers . We source the ingredients for our guest chefs , so there ’ s always a focus on ethical produce from farmers , foragers and fishermen around the UK . But as for the flavours , the ideas and the techniques , that ’ s all down to our guest chefs .
Q . Having an ever-changing lineup of chef residences means that there is always a new experience to enjoy at Carousel do you feel that this is one of the main reasons for your success ?
THE ART OF LUXURY Issue 58 2023