Despite the Casual Dining Apocalypse, Wagamama Is Doing Alright

In challenging times, Wagamama seems to be doing OK

It’s been a punishing year for fast-casual chains — but Wagamama appears be escaping the shrinkage of the market unscathed. The chain has posted a turnover increase of 11 percent to £92.6 million in the 13 weeks to 29 September, up from £83.4 million in the same period last year, according to Big Hospitality. The news is well timed: Wagamama will be launching its spin-off to-go concept, Mamago, on Fenchurch Street in the City of London this week.

And in other news…

• Run-DMC and Aerosmith, Queen and David Bowie… to the list of all-time great collaborations, we can add the inspired teaming up of St. John Wines and The Marksman’s buns. On Tuesday 26th (tomorrow, in other words), between 6pm and 11pm it’ll be serving five doughy delights with carefully chosen wine pairings from St. John. Just turn up.

• From St. John Wines to its pastry section: alumna Ravneet Gill, latterly of Llewelyn’s and Black Axe Mangal and founder of Countertalk, has written a book. The Pastry Chef’s Guide is out in April.

• After a weekend of London restaurants whipping wine glasses away from mothers and regressively gendering their cocktails, one drinks giant has nailed its colours to the mast. Welcome to the resistance, Campari.

• What London’s food scene needs is a little more academic rigour [Contingent Magazine]

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