London’s Most-Queued Indian Cafe Floats Cashless Business

Dishoom asks Twitter to define its future business strategy

The esteemed Bombay café asked its 27 thousand followers: “Hey Twitter. Can Dishoom stop taking cash payments? Hardly anyone seems to use it these days. Any views welcome....” The cashless model — slowly diffusing into the London market, despite its numerous social flaws — prompted a variety of responses, ranging from endorsement and encouragement to technological concerns and questions over the classism of the model. While the discussion was, according to Dishoom, prompted only by curiosity, with “no plans to do it,” the broader question of going cashless is likely to be debated further in the coming months.

Islington café expands around the corner

Maison d’être — next to Black Axe Mangal — will expand its small neighbourhood coffee outlet five minutes down the road. Expect a familiar formula if an Islington resident or a familiar formula if a visitor of any London speciality coffee shop: quality drinks, ‘artisanal’ sandwiches, and other fixings. [Hot Dinners]

Executive chef at lofty restaurant steps down after six years

Tom Cenci will leave Duck and Waffle after six years, following in the footsteps of former chef-director Dan Doherty. Cenci’s current plans are, like the restaurant, somewhere up in the air, but he teases “some very exciting news” for the new year. A betting person might put “solo restaurant” on the cards. [The Caterer]

New Islington bar promises Irish hospitality and “playful sinful food”

Homeboy will open on Essex Road, serving Irish stew, charcuterie, poutine, and Tayto crisps. According to the website, “Drinks will be meticulously balanced while still being approachable.” [Code Hospitality]