Murat Kilic to open new restaurant Ara in East London

Murat Kilic, the restaurateur behind Amber, is preparing to open a new restaurant, Ara, in East London. Located near Spitalfields and Shoreditch, Ara is slated for an official launch on the 1st of May.

Kilic, a self-taught chef whose previous establishments include Route and Amber, is exploring a new culinary direction with Ara. The restaurant promises a menu inspired by global flavours, emphasizing seasonal and ingredient-led dishes. This marks a departure from his earlier ventures, reflecting his personal passion for travel and gastronomic experimentation.

Ara’s interior, designed by Nina Woodcroft, known for her work on sustainable restaurant Silo, mirrors the project’s commitment to ethical design practices. The venue features materials aimed at minimising environmental impact, including rescued diseased London elm wood used for seating and recycled plastics for table tops and bar facades. Ara has also incorporated upholstery made from pineapple leather and light installations crafted from galvanised steel offcuts.

The restaurant will accommodate 76 diners indoors with additional seating for 20 outdoors. The bar will utilise kitchen by-products to create its signature cocktails and feature drinks from eco-conscious producers like Discarded Spirits Co. and 58 and Co. The wine list, curated by general manager Wade Mundford, includes organic, biodynamic, and low-intervention wines, each selected for their sustainable credentials.

Murat Kilic’s entry into the culinary world began unexpectedly. Originally from Turkey, where he spent considerable time learning cooking fundamentals from his grandfather, Kilic moved to London as a teenager with aspirations of becoming an electrical engineer. However, he was quickly drawn to the hospitality industry, starting from humble beginnings as a dishwasher in a local eatery before working his way up through various roles in the industry.

On the opening menu, in the small plates selection, there will be Mussels’ Skewers, served with roasted chicken wings butter sauce, and Mushroom Dumplings, with garlic yogurt and Aleppo chilli butter. Dishes such as Adana Lamb Skewer and Sweetheart Contramar feature among the large plates. Whereas the Semolina Halva and the Herb Sorbet deliver a sweet ending.

Food Desk

Ara’s soft opening will start on the 15^th of April. For further information and bookings, visit the restaurant’s website here.