The Standard opens with two new F&B venues from Rawson
Standard International has opened its first hotel outside the US in the Kings Cross area of London, complete with two F&B venues from talented Executive Chef Adam Rawson.
All-day restaurant Isla provides a laid-back dining experience built around a seasonal menu and a predominantly minimal-intervention wine list. Inspired by Britain’s island geography, the culinary offering focuses on coastal cuisine, light proteins and seasonal British produce.
Isla’s design incorporates an array of greenery set alongside rich blues and reds, adding warmth and depth to the space. The restaurant also extends into a stylish garden terrace with a retractable awning.
Meanwhile, standalone bar Double Standard serves craft beers, wine and classic cocktails to accompany Rawson’s menu, which takes inspiration from traditional pub classics and New York City dive-bar food. Heavy-set wooden doors and textured glass recreate the welcoming atmosphere of a British local, whilst the pastel tiled flooring, rounded soft pink shelving and exposed felt ceiling add contemporary and playful elements.
Rawson, who started his career working under Gordon Ramsay, Nuno Mendes and Claude Bosi, made a name for himself launching Lucky Chip and then Pachamama. He was named Chef of the Year at the Young British Foodie Awards in 2015.
Chef Rawson says: “I’ve really enjoyed the challenge of creating menus which reflect the distinct personalities of Double Standard and Isla.
“Double Standard is a more raucous, convivial space, so I’ve come up with a selection of elevated snacks perfect for sharing. Isla’s menu is more delicate and much lighter.”
The 266-bedroom property was brought to life by The Standard’s in-house design team in collaboration with Shawn Hausman Design.
Late summer will see the second phase of The Standard’s opening, with a standalone bar, and a restaurant and bar by Michelin-starred chef Peter Sanchez-Iglesias, launching on the hotel’s top floor. Sanchez-Iglesias also runs Michelin-starred restaurant Casamia and contemporary eatery Paco Tapas in Bristol.
