Former Cycene chef Theo Clench is to relaunch the chic Mayfair open-fire restaurant Humo next week as Igni, a little over a year after the departure of launch chef Miller Prada.
As suggested by the new name (from the Latin ‘ignis’, meaning fire), the restaurant will continue its culinary approach, although Theo has warned guests not to expect big chunks of smoky meat. Instead, he says, “Igni will be delicate.”
The venue is owned by the Creative Restaurant Group, whose flagship is Endo at the Rotunda – currently closed following a devastating fire. Theo, who previously worked at Bonhams, Portland and Akoko, joined the group after leaving Shoreditch’s Cycene, where he was hailed for his “awesome… high-end” cooking in the 2024 Harden’s Guide.
His tasting menus at Igni will be available in three, five and eight-course options, with a strong emphasis on seafood.
Humo was one of London’s hottest new restaurants following its 2023 launch, with Columbian-born Miller’s Japanese-influenced cooking over a four-metre wood grill attracting rave reviews – and a 5/5 food rating in the Harden’s Guide. Miller left to take up the role of group culinary consultant at Evolv.
