Lewis Spencer rejoins HotBox as executive head chef

Lewis Spencer has rejoined London smokehouse restaurant group HotBox as executive head chef.

Spencer helped develop the brand from its street food roots in 2012 and was involved in the creation of its sister Chuck Burger concept.

HotBox opened a permanent restaurant in Spitalfields in 2014 and trades from Market Halls in Fulham and the West End.

Spencer plans to update the menu with a greater focus on provenance and quality of ingredients. Dishes will include wood-fired chicken and pork ribs, and sides such as charred pointed cabbage with olive oil and cider spritz.

The restaurant interior is undergoing a refurbishment ahead of reopening this spring.

HotBox founder Basit Nasim said: "It's so exciting to have Lewis back in the HotBox kitchen. He was the creative force behind our street food beginnings, and will now lead the team to a more seasonal offering focussed on provenance. We can't wait for our doors to finally reopen."

Spencer trained in brasseries, fine dining restaurants and hotels in France and previously ran an independent pub in Battersea.

HotBox will reopen on 18 May.