NEW OPENING: JASON AND IRHA ATHERTON DEBUT SAEL IN ST JAMES'S MARKET
September 2024
This month, Irha and Chef Jason Atherton opened Sael in St James’ Market, an 85-seat brasserie honouring the British Isles' diverse heritage by blending traditional and global flavours. The menu highlights exclusively British ingredients and is hyper-seasonal, complemented by interiors reflecting the vibrant Cool Britannia era.
Executive Chef Dale Bainbridge, who previously served as Head Chef at Pollen Street Social for ten years, leads the kitchen at Sael. He emphasises that the restaurant will move beyond the typical three-course format, offering a variety of small and large dishes that highlight modern culinary innovation at reasonable prices. Sael will prioritise sourcing high-quality local meats and fish, with a special focus on woodfire cooking to enhance the authenticity of its regional ingredients.
Sael offers a versatile menu where guests select a base ingredient—vegetable or protein—cooked on a wood-fire grill and paired with various sides. Ingredients are exclusively sourced from the British Isles. The dessert menu will feature classic favorites from Pollen Street Social, including jam roly poly with Jersey milk and a unique twist on bread and butter pudding.
Oysters Baked with XO Sauce at Sael
Jason and Irha Atherton, Co-directors of Sael said: “With Sael, we set out to create the ultimate destination in London for anyone seeking the best British food in a relaxed and vibrant setting. Opening a quintessentially British-style brasserie has been a long-held dream of ours, and we're thrilled to finally bring it to life. We can't wait to welcome guests to experience our unique and innovative dining experience, all at accessible prices.” Dinner will be £85 per head, a set lunch menu for £35, and a pre-theatre option at £35 for three courses and two courses for £30.
“We are thrilled to bring over the brilliant team from Pollen Street Social, whose talent and dedication have been integral to our success. Dale Bainbridge, who joined Pollen Street Social as sous chef in 2013 and rose to head chef in 2015, will be joined by the exceptional Sam Mills and Giacomo Della Brutta at Sael, serving as Head Chef and Restaurant Manager respectively. Their wealth of experience and creative prowess will ensure our guests enjoy the same exceptional quality and innovation that have defined our culinary journey.”
Sael's beverage program will feature a curated selection of affordable wines, organised by price tiers: under £50, £150, and £250. House wine will be available by the glass and on tap, focusing on British Isles selections like Renegade and Busi Jacobsohn, as well as premium varieties. The bar will also serve a variety of beers and ciders, including Guinness and local brews on tap.
Designed by Rosendale, the restaurant's interiors incorporate intimate lighting, natural materials, and deep colors to establish a warm and welcoming atmosphere, highlighted by a Union Jack at the entrance. A hand-drawn mural by British artist Kay Harwood, illustrating the four seasons, serves as a focal point, complemented by walls featuring photographs of British icons.
Above Sael is Apples & Pears, a bar with an edgy, minimalist vibe where art meets attitude. Decorated with pieces from the Young British Artists (YBA) movement, it includes a DJ booth for late-night entertainment, ideal for exclusive after-parties. The menu features Sael's snacks and a seasonal cocktail list showcasing inventive, locally-sourced flavors.
Sael will be open 7 days a week for all-day dining, with live DJs on Thursday and Friday.
