‘Great British Menu’ Winner Will Bring Jerk Goat Flatbreads to Boxpark Croydon

James Cochran, 2018 Great British Menu champion of champions and chef at 1251 restaurant in Islington, will launch Goat (GOAT) at Croydon Boxpark this week after trialling the menu at Lewisham Model Market.

Goat’s official website lists two initial options: the jerk goat shoulder that formed part of his Great British Menu-winning main course, and a coal-roasted cauliflower also spiced with jerk seasoning. The flatbreads can be topped with scotch bonnet jam or tamarind yoghurt, and beer-pickled onions or mango and lime salsa. The launch also sees Cochran work with James Whetlor of Cabrito, whose goat he used in winning Great British Menu.

Boxpark Croydon has had a mixed time: multiple traders have reported persistent WiFi issues, EPOS failures, and issues with the owners which translate to “deep and prolonged dissatisfaction concerning the operation of the Croydon Boxpark.” An initial £500,000 loss — which chief executive Roger Wade described as “always planned” — has reportedly since added a further £182,626. The company is no doubt hoping that Cochran’s considerable reputation will be a boon.

Cochran, meanwhile, is looking to have a better business 2019 than 2018, after his former eponymous restaurant James Cochran EC3 continued to trade under that name after the chef had left the restaurant. That restaurant has since closed, with Cochran in charge of his Islington restaurant, 1251.

Cochran is yet to discuss the opening.

More soon.