Joe Laker announces his debut Counter 71 restaurant and Lowcountry bar

Alex South

Editor

Former Fenn Head Chef, Joe Laker, has announced his debut Counter 71 restaurant and Lowcountry bar is coming to Shoreditch this June

Housed under a single roof within 71 Nile Street, Joe’s first solo venture follows previous positions at leading restaurants across the country, most recently as Head Chef at Fenn until 2022, and before that at Anglo, St Leonards and Roots.

Counter 71 Serving only 16 guests per night from a raised, marble countertop, which will take centre stage in the room, Counter 71 is Joe Laker’s culinary ode to the British Isles, offering a tasting menu that depicts the minimalist style he has honed through years within contemporary kitchens.

Intricate in flavour yet unembellished on the plate and adhering to a ‘fewer-ingredient’ philosophy, Joe’s multi-course menu will showcase the idiosyncrasies of the British seasons, although not in eternity, as preservation techniques are set to play a part.

Counter 71 will also bring to light the lesser-known British larder, presenting produce not typically tied to the UK but which have been thriving in recent years due to soaring temperatures; citrus fruits and chillies amongst them.

Working alongside Joe will be Sous Chef Michael Miles (Manteca, Fenn and St Leonards) whilst Harry Cooper (Anglo, St Leonards and Roots) will head up front-of-house.

Harry will also curate the wine list, showcasing a wide selection leaning towards new world wines and varieties from lesser-known producers.

Lowcountry will be headed up by Savannah-born mixologist Ryan Sheehan, and highlight American whiskey and its prominence throughout the ages.

Seating 28 covers and open for standalone bookings and walk-ins as well as Counter 71 guests before or after dinner, the drinks menu will offer ‘Signature’, ‘Historical’ and ‘Classic’ cocktails.

Using surplus produce from the Counter 71 kitchen by means to eradicate unnecessary waste, the Lowcountry cocktails will take a culinary approach and will be adapted frequently according to the seasons.

With dark tones and rubescent accents, the Lowcountry bar provides a contrasting aesthetic to the verdancy of Counter 71.

A communal central table invites conversation amongst strangers, whilst the surrounding two-tops offer intimate seating on mid-century auction house finds and custom leatherette banquettes.

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