Sorren Jessen sells off Graze but plans new Papillon

London restaurateur Sorren Jessen confirmed this week that he had sold his Maida Vale bar and eaterie, Graze, to restaurant and bar operator Talented People.

Graze opened early last year, but Jessen said the project had not worked out as intended.

"We set out to create a restaurant and bar but it turned into predominantly a busy weekend bar," he said.

Jessen, the owner of One Lombard Street in the City, added that he was in negotiations to launch a second Papillon in Moscow, scheduled to open on 1 October.

The original Papillon, a brasserie de luxe in Chelsea, opened to enthusiastic reviews last month.

Jessen's third London operation, Kilo, formerly Noble Rot, is also understood to be up for sale.

Kilo launched last year but has recently been reworked from a ground floor restaurant and basement club to a two-storey drinking bar and club.

"I am currently entertaining an offer," Jessen admitted.

The restaurateur also said he was now looking for further London sites.

By Jessica Gunn

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