Danny Meyer to Bring Shake Shack to London
November 21, 2012
Danny Meyers Union Square Hospitality Group has announced it will introduce its first UK restaurant when it opens Shake Shack in Londons Covent Garden in mid-2013.
Born in New York Citys Madison Square Park in 2004, Shake Shack is a modern day roadside burger stand known for its all-natural burgers, flat-top dogs, frozen custard, American craft beer, wine and more. A fun and lively community gathering place, Shake Shack has become more than just a burger stand and has earned a cult-like following around the world.
With its fine dining heritage, Shake Shack is an integral part of Danny Meyers Union Square Hospitality Group (USHG) which owns and operates some of New York Citys most celebrated restaurants: Union Square Cafe, Gramercy Tavern, The Modern, Maialino, North End Grill, Blue Smoke, Jazz Standard, and Untitled at the Whitney.
I am positively in love with Londons thriving food culture. I adore the city and have always enjoyed the time Ive spent there over the years, explained Danny. For some time now an enormous number of friends in London have asked when we would bring our first restaurant to the city. We looked high and wide for just the right time and spot, and at last I think weve found it in Covent Garden. I am humbled and at the same time excited to bring Shake Shack to the UK and to become part of the incredible London dining scene.
Danny Meyer is long and well respected in the United States as an innovator of hospitality and his Union Square Hospitality Group is one of the most lauded restaurant groups in U.S. history. In addition, restaurants in the USHG family – Shake Shack included – are consistently voted as public favourites in various annual dining guides.
Shake Shack will be located in the historic Market Building near the Royal Opera House in Londons Covent Garden. Covent Garden appealed to Danny for its stirring historic architecture, rich culture and its nearly four-century tradition as a flourishing shopping and dining destination, enjoyed by Londoners and visitors alike. Shake Shacks outdoor seating will flank the columns on South Row, and the Shack will extend into the expansive glass atrium on the Piazza, where additional seating will be available.
Shake Shack London will uphold USHGs commitment to the environment and will feature recycled and sustainable materials, as well as energy-efficient kitchen equipment and lighting throughout the space. The menu will showcase all the Shake Shack items that have become modern American classics, as well as new dishes available only at the London location.
Davis Coffer Lyons’ Development Leasing team advises Covent Garden London.
