The inspiration behind Acorn House Restaurant came from its founders; Jamie Grainger-Smith and Arthur Potts Dawson who were looking to develop a greener concept for the restaurant industry.
Acorn House opened its doors to the public in November 2006 and is London’s first genuine eco-friendly restaurant, built from recycled and sustainable materials. The restaurant works in partnership with London Remade and Camden Council, utilising expertise from across the board to make the restaurant a leader in the catering industry with regards to waste-management and environmental responsibility. Not only is Acorn House aiming to be the most environmentally responsible and recyclable restaurant in London, it is also a social purpose business dedicated to providing hands on training for young adults in the industry.
Acorn House aims to promote healthy eating by offering a menu of seasonal, nutritious food for the wellbeing of customers. The Acorn House project is a way to express and facilitate innovations that evolve around the ways food is created and served. “Seasonal, suitable, simple”. This unique style of cuisine is called Modern London, which reflects the cultural melting pot that characterises the capital.
Needing to establish himself in the local community, Jamie came to Centa. Centa was able to qualify Jamie and Arthur for the £3,500 Camden Grant to help start their venture. Also, with the guidance of Centa’s business advisor James Walsh, Jamie and Arthur were directed to King’s Cross Forum and Camden Council. This enabled Jamie and Arthur to network in the local business community, helping them to establish their new venture.
Jamie and Arthur have already enjoyed success since the opening and The New Year offers more opportunities for Acorn House to grow into the thriving and successful business.