About
Contemporary bistro in the heart of Soho
Arbutus
Arbutus opened in May 2006 and is the brainchild of Anthony Demetre and Will Smith. Arbutus boasts an intimate dining area with a décor that does not compromise on style or elegance. A unique feature is that the whole wine list can be bought by the 250ml carafe and allows you to pair different wine with your meal. Anthony’s cooking skill really shines with his ability to turn seasonal and inexpensive food items into affordable and interesting dishes. Arbutus earned a Michelin star in January 2007.
Anthony Demetre
Having learnt his craft working in some of the world’s leading restaurants and being taught by some of the best chefs including Marco Pierre White and Pierre Koffman a turning point in Anthony’s career came in 1999 when he was appointed chef/director of Putney Bridge restaurant in South West London. It was here that Anthony met his now business partner Will Smith, then restaurant manager of Putney Bridge. Within a year of opening, in January 2000 Putney Bridge and the team were awarded a Michelin Star followed by four AA rosettes for food and service.
Read Anthony’s full biography »
Will Smith
Will’s first foray into hospitality was in hotel management working in notable establishments such as Cameron House Hotel on Loch Lomond and The Balmoral Hotel in Edinburgh which piqued a passion in Will to pursue the restaurant side of the hotel business.
Recognising that London was at the forefront of the restaurant scene Will relocated there in 1997 taking on the role of Restaurant Manager at L’Odeon on Regent Street.
