Two minutes with...Cornus co-founders, David O'Connor and Joe Mercer Nairne
David and Joe, you’ve worked together at your first restaurant, Medlar, for over a decade now - what excites you the most about your new project, Cornus?
Joe: Being able to spread our wings and run more than one business has always been the aim really, but it's taken 13 years to get there. Various things in the past have stalled our plans, like Brexit and the pandemic. It's extremely exciting to watch the team come together at Cornus and the restaurant start to take physical shape.
David: I’ve been doing this a long time now, I’ve gained experience, rolled with the punches that the industry has given me and worked with some of the best. I’m now at a stage in my life where I can see the matrix. I wouldn’t say restaurants are easy but my vision for Cornus can been seen with clarity and can’t wait to get started. It will seem effortless.
This is your second site in West London, what drew you to Belgravia specifically?
David: I’ve worked and lived in west London for 25 years. I love it and I understand what is required for the area.
Joe: Grosvenor have great plans for their estate in Belgravia, it's an area that they're really focussing on. With Victoria next door, it has an excellent mix of residential, office and theatre, all exceptionally well linked by train and tube.
Exceptional hospitality is a core part of your ethos. What would you say are the three key elements that make for a brilliant guest experience?
Joe: Delicious food, thoughtful front of house and a great wine list. All delivered seemingly effortlessly.
David: The 3 key elements are: efficiency; consistency; and genuinely caring hospitality. It's something I'm very passionate about, and which I discuss at length on my podcast, Drive For Service.