20 YEARS OF GALVIN RESTAURANTS: Chris Galvin shares wisdom from two decades at the top

After two decades at the pinnacle of British dining, the Galvin brothers are celebrating a milestone year at the helm of their trio of restaurants – spanning Michelin fine dining at Galvin La Chapelle, a classic bistro at Galvin Bistrot & Bar, and a beloved country gastropub and Bib Gourmand restaurant at Galvin Green Man. We caught up with Chris Galvin, who co-founded the group with his brother Jeff, who shares his unapologetically succinct and practical pearls of wisdom on the longevity of their business.

---

Quick fire questions with Chris Galvin

Q: Secrets to longevity?
A: Create a classic. Just like a well-made pair of brogues—never in or out of fashion, but always timeless and reliable—a great restaurant should stand the test of time. Focus on fundamental pillars: warm, professional service, and a commitment to sustainable, ethical cooking. These are the foundations of lasting success.

Q: Any lessons from the kitchen to manage time?
A: Proper preparation is everything. Success in the kitchen – and time management – comes down to meticulous planning and readiness.

Q: Has there been any reshapes to the dining experience in this time?
A: Dining has become far less formal, with customers now seeking more than just a meal—they want a memorable experience.

Q: The best advice you ever received?
A: Keep it simple.

Q: Things you wished you’d known earlier?
A: Take more risks.

Q: Any revelations to share?
A: Seize every moment – opportunities don’t last forever.

Q: Do you still have new recipes to try?
A: Absolutely – it’s never-ending. There are always new ingredients to explore and techniques to master.

Q: Did you ever worry you’d lose it all at any point?
A: Every day!

Q: Most memorable time or period?
A: Getting our first Michelin star.

Q: Vision then vs vision now?
A: My vision remains unchanged, and my ethos is still the same – caring for our customers, suppliers, and teams.

Q: No private function is complete without…?
A: No private function is complete without a beautifully set table, a thoughtfully curated menu, and the perfect wine pairing – all brought together with seamless service and elegant surroundings.

Q: This next decade heralds a new era of…?
A: The next decade marks a new era of continuous growth – pushing ourselves to be our best, discovering new ingredients, welcoming fresh faces, and revisiting beloved classics with returning guests.

Q: Would you recommend working with your brother?
A: Absolutely! Two brothers, actually – Jeff and David!

---

Galvin Locations:
Galvin La Chapelle, 35 Spital Square, Spitalfields, London, E1 6DY

Galvin Bistrot & Bar, Entrance on Bishops Square, 35 Spital Square, London, E1 6DY

Galvin Green Man, Main Road, Howe Street, Chelmsford, Essex, CM3 1BG

Luxury Restaurant Club

The Luxury Restaurant Club is delighted to partner with Galvin Restaurants. Club members are invited to enjoy exclusive privileges when dining alongside exclusive invitations to select upcoming events. Not a member of LRG? Join from £9 per month. See details.

---