McClements restaurant gives way to new concept

It's the end of an era for Twickenham diners after renowned local restaurant McClements was replaced this week by a new concept.

Owner John McClements has done away with his former Michelin-starred eaterie and unveiled La Brasserie Ma Cuisine instead.

"I decided that McClements has had its day," McClements said. "Michelin stars and prima donna chefs don't make money."

The newly branded restaurant has undergone a £50,000 revamp and reopened on Monday serving classical French food.

Average spend will be about £25-£30 without wine. McClements described it as a more upmarket version of his other brand, Le Petit Bistro Ma Cuisine.

"We'll be doing a Le Gavroche-style of cooking," said McClements, who will now oversee both La Brasserie Ma Cuisine and the neighbouring bistro.

Former McClements head chef Daniel Wodehouse walked out of the restaurant last November, claiming that suppliers were refusing to deal with the operation because they weren't getting paid.

McClements lost its one Michelin star last year, but both Ma Cuisine Twickenham and Ma Cuisine Kew hold Bib Gourmands.

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