Gizzi Erskine returns to Mare Street Market
This autumn, Gizzi Erskine is set to return to Mare Street Market, taking on the role of chef creative director across its Hackney and Kings Cross sites.
The move marks a new phase for the chef, author and broadcaster, as she forges a refreshed dining identity for one of London’s most eclectic market concepts.
A familiar face with a new brief
Gizzi is a well-known figure within the capital’s food scene, with a twenty-year career spanning professional kitchens, bestselling cookbooks and television. Her association with Mare Street Market stretches back to its early days, and she describes her return as a natural step.
She said: “Mare Street Market is my home. It has my DNA in the walls, and it feels natural to come back. Marc and I have always been connected in its vision, and I look forward to being part of re-establishing MSMH and MSMKX as some of the most important food and cultural spaces in London.”
French-Americana influence and a focus on produce
As chef creative director, Gizzi will introduce produce-led French-Americana brasserie menus at both Hackney and Kings Cross. Diners can expect a shift towards bold, comforting flavours delivered with classical technique, from seasonal brasserie plates to a delicatessen counter serving deep-filled focaccia sandwiches and robust salads.
The longer-term plan also includes an all-new health concept, which Gizzi will launch under the Mare Street Market umbrella.
More than food: culture, music and design
Mare Street
Market has built a cult reputation as a hybrid of food hall, cultural venue and design emporium. Chandeliers and furniture can be purchased from interiors boutique Pure White Lines, DJs provide a steady soundtrack, and independent shops and tattoo parlours sit alongside kitchens and bars.
Gizzi’s remit will also see her oversee a line-up of guest residencies and pop-ups, drawing in chefs from London and beyond. These collaborations are designed to reinforce Mare Street Market’s reputation as a hub of contemporary dining culture.
Industry support and expansion
Marc Francis-Baum, owner of Mare Street Market, said: “Mare Street Market continues to grow as an emporium of talent. Alongside Gizzi’s return, we’re proud to be the home of Island, the latest restaurant from chefs Brad Carter and Tom Brown, as well as an upcoming, first of its kind, pop-up shop and music hub from Sony RCA Records.”
For Hackney, Gizzi’s return is a renewal of the market’s original DNA. For Kings Cross, which is located behind Coal Drops Yard, it is an opportunity to bed in a clear culinary identity at a site already thriving as a lifestyle destination.
Context: a London dining scene in motion
Gizzi’s return to the fold comes at a time of sustained momentum for London hospitality. Harden’s London Restaurants 2026 recently reported 146 openings in the past year, the highest level since 2017.
Despite challenges around staffing and food price inflation, consumer demand for innovative, experience-driven dining remains strong.
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Gizzi Erskine returns to Mare Street Market
