In an exciting culinary development, renowned chef Jess Shadbolt and co-owner Annie Shi have launched a traditional British pub named Dean's in New York City, right next to their popular Soho bistro, King. This new venture offers a delightful array of British classics, including the unique stargazy pie--an inventive pot pie featuring a whole fish head peeking through its flaky crust--alongside beloved staples like crispy fish and chips.
Despite facing challenges during renovations, Shadbolt remained optimistic about the pub's future. Originally slated to open in fall 2025, the launch was pushed to spring 2026, coinciding with a personal milestone for Shadbolt, who welcomed her son just weeks before the opening. She humorously refers to him as a "restaurant baby," embodying the spirit of dedication that defines this new establishment.
Now welcoming guests, Dean's has quickly gained popularity for its dinner offerings. The stargazy pie features a filling made from Spanish and Boston mackerels, meticulously prepared with olive oil, herbs, and spices. The pie is baked to perfection, allowing the fish parts to create a visually striking presentation.
Another highlight on the menu includes freshly made crumpets, crafted in-house using a fermentation process that yields a light, airy texture. These crumpets are served with a refreshing crab salad and garnished with sorrel leaves, adding a modern twist to a classic dish.
The menu also boasts pan-seared bay scallops, prepared with utmost care from scallops sourced fresh each morning. The scallops are seared in a tangy vinegar sauce and served on a bed of salsify sauce, topped with crispy bacon lardons for an added flavor punch.
Reflecting on the journey, Shadbolt expressed her pride in finally opening the doors to Dean's, viewing it as a significant achievement. The pub not only celebrates British culinary traditions but also promises to become a vibrant gathering spot in the New York dining scene.
This new establishment exemplifies a growing trend of cultural exchange in the culinary world, where traditional recipes are reimagined to suit contemporary tastes. As Dean's continues to flourish, it may inspire further innovations in the gastronomy landscape, bridging cultures through food.