Hey, Chingford! We’re opening a restaurant

We’re Ravneet and Mattie—a husband-and-wife chef duo finally bringing our dream restaurant to life. After years spent in kitchens, eating for a living, and talking about “one day,” that day is finally here. And we’re opening right in Chingford, a community we’ve grown to love.

Who We Are

Mattie has been cooking for over 16 years in some of London’s best-loved spots—The Camberwell Arms, The Anchor & Hope, Franks in Peckham, Som Saa, and Llewelyn’s. He knows his way around a grill, loves a proper cut of meat, and makes a mean burger.

I (Ravneet) am all about pastry. I’ve worked at places like Zuma, St. JOHN, Black Axe Mangal, Jamavar, and Wild by Tart. I’ve also written three cookbooks, run Countertalk, and judge Junior Bake Off—so you can bet there’ll be a pudding menu worth saving room for.

What’s the Vibe?

We’re creating a chophouse-style restaurant that’s warm, welcoming, and unfussy. The menu will focus on beautiful cuts of meat from Farmer Tom, fresh fish cooked simply, bread baked daily, and pastry made from scratch—because pudding is just as important as the main event.

We want this to be the kind of place where you can drop in solo, come with friends, or bring the family for a relaxed meal. More than just a restaurant, we’re building a space that feels good to be in—one that values the people who work here just as much as the guests who walk through the door.

When Are We Opening?

We’re aiming for May—fingers crossed! Follow us on Instagram and subscribe to our Substack to keep up with the journey (and get some insider tips along the way).

Why 'Gina'

Gina, Mattie’s late mother, is the heart and soul behind our restaurant’s name. She was a woman of warmth, generosity, and boundless creativity—a true artist, a dedicated teacher, and a fabulous mother. Her home had an open-door policy, always filled with good food and great company. We want to bring that same spirit to our space: fun, abundant, a little cheeky, and always welcoming. If she were here, she’d be out front, a glass of red in one hand, a cigarello in the other—ready to greet you like an old friend.