Raphael Francois joins Launceston Place as Chef Patron

D&D London appoints Raphael Francois as the new Chef Patron of the Michelin starred Launceston Place in South Kensington.

Raphael joins Launceston Place from his previous role as Executive Chef at Le Cirque in New York. Raphael is also known for his stint at the Connaught Hotel in London working alongside Hélène Darroze which gained two Michelin stars in 2011 before Raphael's departure in 2012.

At Launceston Place, Raphael will head up the kitchen to create 'innovative' and 'modern' menus that celebrate seasonal British produce. Dishes will include Scallop with parmesan, beets and truffle melanosporum, Blue Crab Simplissime with creamy potato, tarragon, and carapace jus, and Poached Baby Apple with pecan parfait and maple.

David Loewi, D&D London’s Managing Director said: “We are absolutely delighted that Raphael will be heading up Launceston Place. He is an incredibly talented chef and his natural flair in the kitchen, expertise and passion for food will certainly bring something very special to D&D London.”

Alongside Raphael’s appointment, Launceston Place will be launching a new, more relaxed Sunday offering with dishes such as Guinea Fowl and Dry-Aged Herefordshire Beef. D&D London also announced plans to redesign the Chef's Office for an exclusive gastronomic experience seating up to 12 people with a bespoke menu and wine pairing.