Zuma owners to open Oblix restaurant at The Shard

Published: 18 January, 2013

An interactive sommelier station will be one of the features of Rainer Becker and Arjun Waney's new restaurant, Oblix, when it opens in The Shard in London in spring 2013.

The owners of Zuma and Roka restaurants are behind the new venture, which will be located on the 32nd floor, offering two distinct venues - a rotisserie and grill restaurant and a lounge bar.

With wines a main feature, the interactive sommelier station, which the owners claim is the first in London, will allow guests to get more involved with their wine choice. An extensive selection of wines by the glass will give guests the opportunity to taste fine wines and rare vintages, and create their own bespoke pairings. The station also lends itself to tastings and masterclasses in the early evening before diners arrive.

The lounge will offer live music, and a unique selection of spirits and cocktails. Drinks will be chilled with chunks of ice hand-chiseled from large, purified and filtered blocks, a technique that keeps the chill without diluting the drink.

Inspired by a classic New York grill, Becker has created dishes at Oblix that also celebrate British and European ingredients and influences. The kitchen will contain a spit roast for slow-roasting joints, a charcoal grill, and a wood-fired oven for breads and pizza.

Becker said: "The building is quite incredible and I was immediately struck by the power of its design. The more I looked at it, the more I thought of New York, and the height and boldness of the buildings there. The idea for Oblix grew from that really."

Zuma is approaching its 11th successful year, and remains the flagship brand with more openings planned internationally.

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