Harcourt Inns to open Henry Harris-led Chiswick pub early 2019

January 2019 will see The Crown open on Chiswick High Road, formerly Carvosso’s, under the direction of critically-acclaimed chef and local resident, Henry Harris, together with business partner, James McCulloch (founder, Harcourt Inns).

The expansive seventeenth century building is set across 2 floors, over a total area of almost 6,000 square feet. Enjoying a rich heritage as a former police station and stables, the space has capacity for up to 120 covers, complete with a bar, dining room, courtyard, and the private dining rooms.

Head chef will be Sicilian born Daniele Zaffora, who has worked with Harris previously at Racine, as well as the Dover Street Arts Club. Zaffora’s Mediterranean influence will be visible across the menus. Front of House will be overseen by Ruth Leigh (Le Café Anglais, Dock Kitchen, The Hero of Maida) who is also a local.

The Crown will be the fourth site from Harcourt Inns, a collection of London-based pubs with dining rooms, following Three Cranes in the City (2017), The Coach in Clerkenwell (January 2018) and The Hero of Maida in Maida Vale (May 2018). Originally scheduled to launch in autumn, construction work has pushed the opening date back to early 2019.

The daily changing menus will run from breakfast through to dinner, seven days a week. Dishes will be Mediterranean leaning, owing to Zaffora’s Sicilian heritage, and will showcase the best of simple, quality ingredients. Sunday roasts are to be a highlight, demonstrating the team’s ability to combine Henry’s signature style of cooking, with the best of British culinary practices.

The Crown will place an emphasis on community, inviting guests to enjoy good food and wine in welcoming surrounds. The project is especially dear to Harris who, having lived locally for the past 21 years, has always envisioned developing a pub in his own neighbourhood.

Harris will continue to work with the network of suppliers he has partnered with over the last thirty years, such as HG Walter in Baron’s Court; Cove South West of Poole, Dorset; and Vernon Mascarenhas of Nature’s Choice. More locally he will continue to work with Natoora; his wife Denise, of Harris Vintners; and the Baker family who have the greengrocers adjacent to The Crown.

A comprehensive drinks selection, including beers and ales from local breweries, such as Fullers’ London Pride and Portobello Brewery, will sit alongside a carefully curated wine list, grower Champagnes, and French spirits such as Cognac, Armagnac and Brandy. Classic cocktails will also feature.