Kenny Atkinson set for first solo London venture

Michelin-starred chef Kenny Atkinson is set to launch Solaya, his first solo London venture, later this year.

Solaya, a French Mediterranean restaurant and bar located on the 25th floor of art’otel London Hoxton, will officially open its doors in early autumn.

Set upon a 360 circular layout, Solaya’s main restaurant space will offer 70 covers, alongside an intimate lounge and bar area, seating up to 110 people.

There will also be several balconies available for private dining and private hire all year round, with the feature balcony seating 12 people. 

Kenny is owner and chef patron of Michelin-starred Newcastle restaurants House of Tides and Solstice by Kenny Atkinson. That saw him make history as the first chef to hold two separate Michelin stars for restaurants in the city.

Inspired by Solaya’s name, which draws connotations from the sun, the menu will feature flavour-led dishes with simplified plating that are seasonal and embody ‘sunshine on a plate’ all year round.

The day-to-day running of the kitchen will be led by head chef Nicola Losquadro, previously of Sucre, Mere Restaurant by Monica Galetti and The Oystermen Kitchen & Seafood Bar. 

The wine list will feature strong French and Mediterranean influence, covering lesser known Mediterranean regions such as Greece, Slovenia, Croatia, Serbia as well as France, Italy, Spain, Portugal and Austria. 

Floor-to-ceiling windows will flood the space with natural light, offering panoramic views of the city.

Concept chef Kenny said: “Solaya is an exciting project for me as my first solo venture in London and a chance to bring something truly special to the city.

“I’ve always been drawn to the warmth and soul of Mediterranean cooking, and Solaya is about capturing that feeling – sunshine on a plate, bold flavours, and food that brings people together.

“The views from the 25th floor are spectacular, and I wanted the food and atmosphere to match that sense of occasion. It’s an exciting new chapter, and I can’t wait to welcome our first guests."

Born in Newcastle, Kenny has almost 30 years of experience in some of the UK’s finest kitchens, also gaining national recognition after winning BBC’s Great British Menu in 2009 and 2010. He has since featured on television, on shows such as Saturday Kitchen and James Martin’s Saturday Morning.