Internationally renowned chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten, holder of three Michelin stars at his restaurant Jean Georges, Central Park West, Manhattan, is set to open his latest venture in London. Spice Market will open at the new W London – Leicester Square hotel, Wardour Street, in February. Jean-Georges Vongerichten, also owns a clutch of other restaurants worldwide and this South East Asian inspired restaurant will be the sister to Spice Market his restaurant in New York’s Meatpacking District.

Chef de Cuisine at Spice Market will be Tim Tolley, formerly Head Chef at Vong, Jean-Georges former venture in London, the General Manager will be Bertrand Pierson, also formerly from the Vong team.

We are told that the restaurant’s cuisine will have been inspired by the vibrant street life of South East Asia, Jean-Georges has, we understand, created a menu featuring exotic curries and spices, their aim ‘to create bold and tantalising dishes’. Serving breakfast lunch and dinner, signature dishes will include: Spiced Chicken Samosa with Coriander Yogurt, Cod with Malaysian Chilli Sauce and Thai Basil and Ovaltine Kulfi, Caramelized Banana and Spiced Milk Chocolate.

We also understand that the restaurant’s decor will have an eclectic feel. Set over two floors it will draw on that of Spice Market New York and the contemporary architecture of the new W London Hotel. We are told that it will feature shades of gold, copper, chrome as well as wood throughout the restaurant. There will be low slung black leather banquettes encircling the rooms and diners will be seated at intimate booths.

Will this new Jean-George Vongerichten venture add a bit of zing to the London restaurant scene? We won’t have long to wait to find out.