'Meat' the new head chef at 26 Smithfield

Local sourcing will be no problem for Roland Embleton in his new role as head chef at a London pub - one of the world's most famous meat markets is right on his doorstep.

Roland has joined 26 Smithfield, which opened by Smithfield Market in the City ate the end of last year. The bar and restaurant is operated on a Punch lease by East End businesswoman Lisa Halil, who has invested more than £150,000 in the business, which covers four levels and offers everything from high tech meeting facilities to an office party venue.

Roland, who previously ran his own restaurant in Northampton, has launched a new menu featuring meat purchased on the doorstep at Smithfield. Rotisserie chicken and meat platters to share proving to be popular specialities.

Lisa is originally from Bethnal Green, and has worked in the licensed trade for most of her 30 year career running wine bars and night clubs. She said: "Launching 26 Smithfield has been a huge challenge but the end result is fantastic.

"Appointing Roland to run the kitchen has been a great boost, with excellent food cooked and served in style to match the newly refurbished interior. He brings a clean, wholesome and honest approach to food that the customers will love."

The menu, featuring local produce including roasts, market cuts of the day and fresh fish, is complemented by beers including Staropramen and Leffe on draught, and ales such as Adnams Spindrift.

The site includes a basement bar complete with private entrance for party bookings, a main bar area on the ground floor, an 80-seater no smoking dining room and roof terrace with views across Smithfield Market. Lisa's investment included kitting out the basement with wireless internet connectivity in the main bar and function rooms,and plasma screens and projectors so it can be hired out for business meetings, presentations and private parties.

Music also features heavily at 26 Smithfield, with open mike nights every Wednesday, as well as karaoke and jazz events.