Big changes in the kitchen at Philip Johnson's restaurants

It's all change at Philip Johnson's restaurants, with the head chefs departing from two of his venues, the newish (and newly hatted) Bistro One Eleven and stalwart e'cco which celebrated it's 18th birthday this year.

Norman Harvey from e'cco bistro departs after more than a year and is joining the mini-empire being created by Damien Griffith (Alfred & Constance/Limes Hotel, Alfredo's/ Chester Street Kitchen). Draper's plans are unknown.

Meanwhile, in a neat chef swap, Mathias Andersson, who has been at Alfred & Constance, returns to the fold, (he was with Johnson at e'cco for 9 of its 18 years) this time as head chef at Bistro One Eleven.

“He is one of the best-known e'cco chefs and is incredibly gifted ,” Johnson said.

“I think it's important to add, that while he's joining One Eleven, I'm happy with the product and nothing's going to change. He will however put his creative twist on things in conjunction with me as the menus continue to evolve.”

Sam Brading, Bistro One Eleven's senior sous chef, moves to e'cco as head chef.

“Sam's been part of the family for six years. He was senior sous chef under Damien and was a big part of its successful launch. It's time for him to stretch his wings a bit and head up to e'cco.”

Paul McGiven (ex Manx and Rapide) will be joining the team too, taking care of operations.

Looks like a big year for Johnson who's also working on a new cook book based on both restaurants.