Chef Andy Beynon's Behind Restaurant is a modern seafood haven in London's Hackney neighborhood, where the tasting menu changes almost daily. To avoid spoilers, the menu isn't posted online, and diners flock to the 18-seat restaurant, eager to experience something new each time.
The culinary journey begins with behind-the-scenes stories from Beynon, who opened his first restaurant just months after earning a Michelin star in October 2020. Initially, he borrowed money and begged for help but found that the Michelin recognition catapulted him into financial stability.
Growing up in Hertfordshire, Beynon's early interest was not cooking but hairstyling. However, during high school, his passion shifted to cooking after watching food programs like "Ready, Steady, Cook." He started as a dishwasher at 16 while still in school and soon discovered the creativity behind cooking. Working under notable chefs such as Phil Howard and Claude Bosi helped shape Beynon's culinary vision.
Beynon is an advocate for seafood-based dishes, particularly after visiting Malaysia where he brought back unique spices and ingredients. In his restaurant Behind, prawns are a staple with a popular toast dish that has remained on the menu for six months, evolving over time. The chef incorporates local fish like gray mullet into his dishes, using smoked kippers to add smoky flavors.
Beynon emphasizes the importance of simplicity in cooking, allowing key ingredients to shine. He is selective about adding flavors and seasonings, stating that "too much salt on a scallop can ruin the dish." The chef's restaurant offers an open-concept layout with diners seated around a curved counter where they watch chefs preparing meals.
Behind Restaurant has gained significant recognition since its opening, including a second Michelin star, which Beynon is currently striving for. He plans to expand into a cocktail bar called Behind Behind and continues to innovate with new dishes. The chef's dedication to his vision is evident in his enthusiasm for the next culinary milestone.
Behind Restaurant embodies Chef Andy Beynon's creativity, passion for seafood-based cuisine, and commitment to simplicity in cooking. As he navigates the path towards his second Michelin star, one thing is certain: Beynon remains focused on doing what he believes best – elevating the dining experience through bold flavors and exceptional presentation.
The culinary journey begins with behind-the-scenes stories from Beynon, who opened his first restaurant just months after earning a Michelin star in October 2020. Initially, he borrowed money and begged for help but found that the Michelin recognition catapulted him into financial stability.
Growing up in Hertfordshire, Beynon's early interest was not cooking but hairstyling. However, during high school, his passion shifted to cooking after watching food programs like "Ready, Steady, Cook." He started as a dishwasher at 16 while still in school and soon discovered the creativity behind cooking. Working under notable chefs such as Phil Howard and Claude Bosi helped shape Beynon's culinary vision.
Beynon is an advocate for seafood-based dishes, particularly after visiting Malaysia where he brought back unique spices and ingredients. In his restaurant Behind, prawns are a staple with a popular toast dish that has remained on the menu for six months, evolving over time. The chef incorporates local fish like gray mullet into his dishes, using smoked kippers to add smoky flavors.
Beynon emphasizes the importance of simplicity in cooking, allowing key ingredients to shine. He is selective about adding flavors and seasonings, stating that "too much salt on a scallop can ruin the dish." The chef's restaurant offers an open-concept layout with diners seated around a curved counter where they watch chefs preparing meals.
Behind Restaurant has gained significant recognition since its opening, including a second Michelin star, which Beynon is currently striving for. He plans to expand into a cocktail bar called Behind Behind and continues to innovate with new dishes. The chef's dedication to his vision is evident in his enthusiasm for the next culinary milestone.
Behind Restaurant embodies Chef Andy Beynon's creativity, passion for seafood-based cuisine, and commitment to simplicity in cooking. As he navigates the path towards his second Michelin star, one thing is certain: Beynon remains focused on doing what he believes best – elevating the dining experience through bold flavors and exceptional presentation.