A Changing of the Pass

Last month, we said farewell and wished good luck to our head chef, John Frechin, who has been at the helm of our kitchen since 2021.

Over the past couple of years, John has fed us all with his attention to detail and passion for the seasons — thoughtful menus, quietly confident plates, and a deep respect for ingredients and where they come from. Shy by nature, but never on the plate, his cooking always carried a sense of depth and intention. There’s a generosity to the way he cooks that we’ve all felt — in the food, in the kitchen, and in our space.

We’re incredibly grateful for the time, energy, and passion he’s given to Klose & Soan. It takes a lot to pursue what you love, and John has always done so with conviction. He leaves a real imprint here, and he’s already missed.

He’s off to new pastures in West London now, continuing to do what he does best — and we couldn’t be happier for him.

Stepping into those kitchen clogs is no small thing, but this next chapter feels like a natural one.

We’re super excited to welcome back George Brown to the pass.

George is very much part of the extended Klose & Soan family. He previously worked with us as a sous chef before going on to co-found Gorka with George Husband — a project that continues to evolve through residencies at Italo Delicatessen, Camberwell Arms, Carousel, Jazu, and next month, Layla in New York, alongside upcoming Sunday services at The Star & Garter, Deptford, to name just a few. You might also remember their early pop-up here back in August 2023. He’s also spent time honing his craft in the kitchens of Café Cecilia and The Watermans Arms, shaping a style of cooking that feels instinctive, thoughtful, and confident.

Now, he returns to the kitchen alongside Matt Klose, bringing with him a fresh energy for the season ahead. It feels like a bit of a full circle moment — one that we’re really excited about.

Expect a menu that continues to evolve with the seasons, shaped by familiar foundations and new perspectives.