Melanie and Margot first met in 1992, just before the opening of The French House Dining Room, set up by Margot, Fergus Henderson and Jon Spiteri. After Fergus and Jon left to open St John they ran the restaurant together until 2001, introducing event catering into the mix, working all over Britain and world-wide, hard work but huge fun.

Rochelle Canteen opened in 2004, starting life with one big sharing table and a box for a till, and has grown from strength to strength over the years since, with an incredible list of people who have worked with us, many of whom have now gone on to open their own places.  The garden surroundings, walled off from the bustle of surrounding streets, lend peace and freshness to the Canteen.

Margot’s book You’re All Invited was published by Fig Tree in 2012, and she was awarded an OBE in 2022.

We are very proud to work with some of the best producers and importers in the UK.   Ranging across food and drink they include Ben’s Fish, Brindisa, Farmer Tom, Fin & Flounder, Fine Cider Co, Fowey Valley, Fresh Olive Co, Futtle Beer, Giacy, HG Wines, Harris Vinters, Keeling Andrew, Linley Farm, Neal’s Yard, Passione Vino, St Enodoc Asparagus, Swaledale Farm, Thorman Hunt, to mention a few.