Theo James Opens Second Restaurant Ornella in Hackney
The numbers
Theo James is making headlines with the announcement of his second restaurant, Ornella, located in Hackney. This new establishment will be almost double the size of his first restaurant, LUPA, which has gained popularity since its opening.
Ornella will focus on Italian cuisine, specifically drawing inspiration from Milanese culinary traditions. Ed Templeton, a key figure in the restaurant’s development, stated, “We could have done a second Lupa, and maybe we will one day, but we wanted to do something even more ambitious here.” This ambition reflects a growing trend among restaurateurs to innovate and expand their offerings.
James has previously opened LUPA in Highbury, which has set a high standard for his new venture. The decision to open Ornella comes as part of a broader strategy to enhance his culinary brand and reach a wider audience in London.
In addition to his culinary endeavors, Theo James is also known for his role in the long-running TV show, Coronation Street. He portrays Theo Silverton, a character embroiled in a domestic abuse storyline with Todd Grimshaw. This plot has drawn significant viewer attention, with George Shuttleworth commenting, “This all feels so sudden, it feels like Theo dragged Todd to the registry office.”
The storyline has highlighted serious issues, including emotional manipulation and physical abuse, as Theo has subjected Todd to various forms of coercion. Another character, Gary Windass, who has a violent history, has been friends with Theo, adding layers to the narrative.
As the restaurant prepares for its opening, observers are eager to see how Ornella will be received in the competitive London dining scene. The success of LUPA sets a high bar, and the culinary community is watching closely.
Details remain unconfirmed about the exact opening date and the full menu offerings for Ornella, but expectations are high for this new Italian dining experience in Hackney. With the combination of innovative cuisine and a compelling backstory from his television career, Theo James is poised to make a significant impact in both the culinary and entertainment worlds.