Sally Abé joins Conrad London St James as consultant chef

The Conrad London St James has appointed Sally Abé, head chef of the Michelin-starred Harwood Arms in London's Fulham, as consultant chef.

The hotel plans to invest £1.75m in creating a new signature restaurant, a contemporary take on a London pub, an afternoon tea lounge and cocktail bar.

Beverly Payne, general manager of Conrad London St James, said: "We are so excited to welcome Sally, who has already had a considerable impact on the London dining scene and focuses on creating exquisite dishes using the best of British produce.

"Working alongside Sally over the past few months has shown us what a remarkable talent she is, and in spite of all the trading challenges we're dealing with, we are absolutely confident that we have everything lined up to make a real mark on the London dining scene. Our new concepts will provide the ideal settings for Sally to demonstrate her versatility and to continue to champion and empower women in hospitality."

Abé added: "This is the opportunity I've been looking for. The partnership with Conrad London St James gives me a chance to fulfil my ambitions to create dishes and menus that show every aspect of my passion for seasonal British food."

The new restaurant will be inspired by pioneering women, with designers Wilson Associates appointed to create the interiors.

The first new concept to open will be the Blue Boar pub in September, with the other offerings to follow in spring 2021.