Carmel to launch new site in London’s Fitzrovia

Mediterranean restaurant and bar Carmel has signed a 15-year lease for 7-8 Market Place, Fitzrovia, which marks its second site in London following the success of Carmel in Queen’s Park.

The group also operates Berber and Q in East London and Shawarma Bar in Exmouth Market.

The new 95-seater restaurant comprising over 5,000 sq. ft in Market Place, close to Oxford Circus, is scheduled to open in the spring.

The restaurant will feature an open kitchen, a bar and ‘The Garden Room’ that seats up to 30 guests in a “naturally lit space with lots of greenery”. Additionally, the outdoor terrace will accommodate up to 38 guests.

International real estate advisor Savills, acting on behalf of landlord Woven Spaces, advised on the deal.

Josh Katz, founder of Carmel, said: “Carmel in Queen’s Park has become such a cherished, local favourite and we wanted to bring the sense of this to central London. The menu will continue to focus on the Eastern Mediterranean cuisine which I love, but with a bigger kitchen and space, we can explore more with our menu.”

Josh Leon, director in restaurants and leisure at Savills, added: “Market Place is a fantastic spot just next to Oxford Circus with a critical mass of restaurants and outside seating. Woven Spaces have recently taken ownership of several units on the street and Carmel will be the first step in their exciting plans for the area, with another restaurant becoming available soon.”