Riverside restaurant will become TV chef's first in London

The Depot Restaurant Barnes

Rick Stein is the new owner of the Depot in Barnes which will become his first restaurant in London.

The TV Chef and cookery book author is best known for his seafood dishes having established his reputation at his restaurant in Padstow.

The existing directors of the Depot who have run the establishment since 1986 have decided to retire and sell their company, Tideway Restaurants Ltd to Rick. He has promised to keep on the current staff of 40 and the restaurant will continue to operate in its current form until December when it will be refurbished.

The Depot, situated near the centre of Barnes, is nestled in the Tideway Yard, a renovated Victorian cobbled courtyard, forming part of an award-winning conversion with a secluded south-facing entrance patio. With parquet flooring, high ceilings and a conservatory running the length of the room which frames the magnificent views of the Thames.

Rick says “I’ve often been asked if I’ll ever have a restaurant in London, and to be honest, I’ve always said I wouldn’t; but when I went to have a look at The Depot it struck me how perfect a place it was: overlooking the Thames, being wonderfully close to central London but far enough out to feel like you’re in your own community, a little village almost. I watched people popping in on their way home from work, escaping the hustle and bustle of city life to sit back, have some food and a good bottle of wine and relax”

Gillian, Gavin and Mark, the previous owners believe that the time had come to hand over the reins. They said, “it’s with mixed emotions, to say the least, that we write with news that we’ve sold The Depot to Rick Stein, who we know will look after you well and continue our proud tradition.

“The Depot team remains and you are sure to see familiar faces, so fear not, a warm welcome awaits, as ever, and we know that you will be in safe and experienced hands.

“It really has been a pleasure to have run The Depot for all this time, with so many memories; particularly of special events, from retirement parties to weddings, christenings, birthdays and the inevitable funeral receptions.

“Your feedback over the years has been generous and much appreciated, and reflects so well on our loyal and hard-working team, to whom we are very grateful.”

October 7, 2016