Richard Corrigan opens new restaurant Daffodil Mulligan in Old Street
Today, chef Richard Corrigan opened his third London restaurant, Daffodil Mulligan, in Old Street, alongside John Nugent (Green & Fortune) and Tony Gibney (Gibney’s of Malahide). The Irish trio, who have over a century of hospitality experience combined, acquired the site previously known as Nuala in July 2019.
The 50-cover restaurant includes an oyster bar seating eight guests and a basement saloon bar which will host a series of live music nights. The frequently changing menu, designed by Corrigan and head chef Simon Merrick, features produce from Corrigan’s estate in Ireland, Virginia Park Lodge, and is split into 4 sections: Small, Wood Oven & Grill, Sides and Sweet. 32-year-old Merrick has worked with Richard for 11 years, starting off as a commis at Michelin-starred Lindsay House before moving to Bentley’s Oyster Bar & Grill and, most recently, Corrigan’s Mayfair, where he was sous chef.
The ground floor and basement bar serve a selection of craft beers and spirits, with a focus on smaller Irish distilleries and producers – many of which are available only in London. The concise cocktail menu, curated by Gibney’s son Cormac, features takes on classics such as The Shoreditch Sour (Black Bush whisky, lemon and Malbec float) and Long Way Home (Jameson Black Barrel, orange bitters and ginger beer) – a play on the traditional Jameson and ginger combination. The restaurant’s wine list has been assembled by Richard Corrigan Junior, who was previously restaurant manager at renowned Hong Kong restaurant Belon. The international list consists of 50 bins and focuses on Old World wines.
The interior design has been led by architect Linda Turner, who previously worked with award-winning restaurant designer David Collins. The open kitchen is enclosed in warehouse-style steel glazing and reeded textured glass, enhancing the industrial theme of the base building with its exposed steel columns. Continuing the warehouse aesthetic, a new feature bar has been installed, with a striking backlit drinks display and zinc bar top. The bar features dining counters as well as an oyster bar section, complete with crustacean display. Perfect for both large and small parties, the restaurant houses long natural timber tables, illuminated by feature pendants.
Downstairs, the bar has a warm underground vibe, enhanced by antique mirrors and dark timber panelling. There are also two timber “snug” booths which each feature a screen for major sporting events throughout the year. The artwork was curated by Luke Dodd, who carefully chose pieces to reflect Daffodil Mulligan’s edgy and rebellious personality. Portraits of well-known Irish icons can be seen throughout, including Sinéad O’Connor, Francis Bacon and Countess Markievicz – the first female cabinet minister in Europe.
Named after the daughter of Biddy Mulligan, a legendary Dublin street seller, Daffodil Mulligan hopes to showcase her Irish spirit and hospitality in London’s East End.
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For further information or to book a table at Daffodil Mulligan, 70-74 City Road London EC1Y 2BJ, please visit their website or call 020 7404 3000.
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