In the bustling heart of London’s creative scene, Lantern, a design powerhouse, breathed life into a vision that would soon become a beloved fixture in the world of dining. The brainchild of restaurateurs Simon and Darcy, The Common Stove is not just another high – end neighbourhood restaurant; it is a culinary sanctuary that celebrates community, togetherness, and the art of simple, yet exquisite, food.
Simon and Darcy had a dream: to open a restaurant that would stand out from the crowd. They envisioned a place where people from all walks of life could gather, united by the universal language of food. At The Common Stove, every dish is a labour of love, with a commitment to making everything in – house and treating simple ingredients with the utmost care. But to bring this dream to fruition, they needed a brand identity that would tell their story and capture the essence of their unique concept.
The name “The Common Stove” itself is a nod to the idea of communal cooking and shared experiences. It draws inspiration from a community design project in Slovenia, where a traditional U – shaped wood – burning stove, known as a kachelofen, served as a central meeting point for three remote villages. This stove was more than just a cooking appliance; it was a place where people came together to cook, eat, and build relationships.
This inspiration is evident not only in the name but also in the very fabric of the Orillia restaurant. The U – shape of the kachelofen influenced the design of the chef’s counter and booths, creating an inviting and inclusive atmosphere. At the heart of the kitchen lies a wood – fired grill, which not only provides the heat for cooking but also serves as a symbol of the warmth and conviviality that The Common Stove aims to evoke. Just as the kachelofen brought people together in Slovenia, the wood – fired grill at The Common Stove is the focal point around which diners gather, sharing stories and enjoying delicious food.
The brand identity of The Common Stove is a masterful blend of elements that pay homage to the local natural environment and the sense of community that lies at the core of the restaurant’s philosophy. The use of wood to power the fire is not just a practical choice; it is a visual and sensory reminder of the connection between the restaurant and the surrounding nature. From the wooden accents in the interior design to the imagery used in the branding, every detail speaks of the beauty and simplicity of the natural world.
The menu at The Common Stove is a reflection of the wood – fired grill and the concept of elemental cooking. With an emphasis on quality and simplicity, it showcases the best of locally sourced ingredients from the vast forests and lakes. Each dish is a celebration of the natural flavours of the region, prepared with skill and creativity. Whether it’s a perfectly grilled steak, a fresh salad bursting with seasonal vegetables, or a decadent dessert, every item on the menu is designed to delight the senses and bring people together.
In a world where dining out often feels like a rushed and impersonal experience, The Common Stove offers a refreshing alternative. It is a place where time slows down, where conversations flow, and where the joy of sharing a meal with others is truly celebrated. Thanks to the creative vision of Lantern and the passion of Simon and Darcy, The Common Stove has firmly established itself as a leading restaurant, not just for its delicious food but for the sense of community and connection it creates.
