Company of Cooks has launched the cafe at the newly reopened Hayward Gallery at the Southbank Centre, following an extensive two-year refurbishment.
The independent London-based caterer has an impressive 22-year history, with a particular focus on the arts and culture sector and has been working in partnership with the Southbank Centre for the past ten years. The company prides itself on its collaborative approach, working closely with its partners to bring a bespoke experience to each project.
The world-renowned contemporary art gallery is one of the major arts venues on the South Bank. Famous for presenting a wide range of adventurous and influential artists from across the world, its rich history includes exhibitions by modern pioneers such as Paul Klee, Francis Bacon and Bridget Riley. Company of Cooks has worked closely with the Hayward Gallery to create a space that is welcoming while also reflecting the neutral and modernist environment of the famously brutalist building.
Inspired by the gallery’s global influence, Company of Cooks created a small but perfectly formed menu of original and authentic seasonal dishes. Overseen by manager Rae Harrison, who is herself an artist, the international menu features signature dishes including an Asian hot broth (made with tofu, ginger, cumin and chilli), avocado salad with a tahini dressing and butternut squash frittata served with crispy kale.
Company of Cooks takes great care to source the best produce with a focus on fresh, high quality ingredients that are simply prepared. Equal care has been given to delivering a distinctive, premium drinks selection, fitting for the gallery’s clientele, including turmeric lattes, “My Cup of Tea” infusions and exceptional coffee made with Monmouth Coffee Company beans.
The new Hayward Gallery Cafe has been designed by award-winning Architecture and Design Studio, Softroom. It features a mural by artist, Giles Round and specially commissioned handmade wall coverings to give it a clean, contemporary feel. By day or night, visitors can enjoy the relaxed environment, which overlooks Waterloo Bridge, while enjoying a craft beer, glass of organic prosecco or a cocktail made with Jensen’s Bermondsey Gin.
Mike Lucy, founder and CEO of Company of Cooks, commented: “We’ve been working with some of the UK’s top cultural enterprises for over 20 years. We’re delighted to have supported the Southbank Centre with the Hayward Gallery redevelopment and have thoroughly enjoyed the challenge of working together to create a food and drink offer as unique and exciting as the new gallery.”
Ralph Rugoff, Hayward Gallery Director, commented, “It has been a great journey working with Company of Cooks to develop our new Hayward Gallery Café. The team did a wonderful job responding to the demanding brief we set, and we are absolutely thrilled with the result.”
(photo credit: Lia Vittone)