If you've ever had the pleasure of eating at Joe Laker's Shoreditch restaurant - Counter 71 - you'll know that this is a special chef indeed. Originally opened in June 2023, the 16-seater chef’s table is Laker's first solo venture - and a magnificent one at that - offering a balanced, precise and technically brilliant tasting menu spread out over 11 spectacular courses.
Over his career, Laker has worked in some of the best kitchens in the world, including three-star Copenhagen restaurant Jordnaer and Jason Atherton’s Michelin flagship Pollen Street Social, honing his technique and developing an eye for perfection.
His passion for excellent produce harks back to his time spent working for Tommy Banks at The Black Swan and Roots, where he learned his way around the kitchen gardens, from crop rotation, to pruning techniques. Now, at Counter 71, he uses ingredients sourced solely from the British Isles, highlighting lesser-known farmers and producers that have found ways to grow non-native ingredients, be it wasabi from a grower in Hampshire, or British okra.
The cutting edge chef has many strings to his bow. During his early career, Laker spent time working at a Chinese restaurant while studying at university, at a fried chicken shop during lockdown, as well as a stint as a pizza chef at Water Lane Boathouse. However, Laker's most notable role prior to Counter 71 was as head chef at Fenn in Fulham. The hugely popular neighbourhood restaurant was a smash hit, and served locals for two successful years before sadly closing.
Along the way, Laker has brought in some of his closest companions to work on Counter 71. Harry Cooper is the restaurant’s general manager and sommelier, and long-term friend of Laker’s since the pair worked together at Anglo in Farringdon. He oversees the main counter, alongside head chef Ryo Iwayama, while Savannah-born mixologist Ryan Sheehan (who Laker met at Fenn) manages the downstairs sister bar, lowcountry. It’s inspired by the American South, and Laker’s childhood years spent living in Alabama and South Carolina.
With a tapestry of industry experience, insider knowledge, and hospitality pals, Joe Laker’s favourite restaurants are certainly well-informed - see what he recommends below!
Endo at the Rotunda, London
![rooftop restaurant with wooden bar and omakase canape dish]()
Joe Laker says: 'I first visited Endo’s restaurant in March 2024. It’s a restaurant that goes far beyond the food, offering an experience that is only attainable by someone who is fully committed to their craft. As soon as you head up the private elevator you know you’re about to witness something truly special. An outer world experience that makes you completely forget where you are and how you got there. Every single element of the experience has been refined again and again. Menu highlights for me were his ‘business card’ and the most delicious sake creme brulee. I’ve had the pleasure to cook for Endo many times and also work side by side for an event at Counter 71.'
Where: 101 Wood Lane, W12 7FR
Book now: Endo at the Rotunda
Paul Ainsworth at No6, Padstow
![chefs pouring sauces over plates and cracker used to eat dip]()
Joe Laker says: 'Somewhere I’ve returned to many times and probably the most consistent restaurant in the country. I'm not entirely sure when I first visited but it must have been over five years ago. Every time I’ve visited it’s even better than the time before - hospitality in its very purest state. I’ve had the pleasure to meet Paul and his team on a few occasions whilst there and it’s great to see him foster incredible talent in the UK, most of which are definitely chefs to watch for the future. ‘Yesterday’s Scone’ was incredible and when I was there, a chocolate vol au vent was a star. It’s a must when visiting Cornwall.'
Where: 6 Middle Street, PL28 8AP
Book now: Paul Ainsworth at No6
Ikoyi, London
![spacious fine dining room and scallop with dressing]()
Joe Laker says: 'I’ve only visited Ikoyi once in July 2025 but I feel like it's one of the most inspirational places I've been to in regards to the food. Every plate is maximalist, with many different sauces, garnishes, flavours, but not once did they not all have a place. No flavours ever clashed or felt unnecessary on the plate, which is something I've never experienced before. The tea pairing was excellent, showing some rare and extremely flavourful options to complement the courses. It's a great restaurant for a celebration and the interiors are on point as well. There were so many standouts, the Drunken Squid/Fermented Rice snack and the Brown Butter/Red Long Pepper dessert were my favourites.'
Where: 180 Strand, WC2R 1EA
Book now: Ikoyi
Trinity, London
![dining room with artwork and red meat being drizzled in jus]()
Joe Laker says: 'I've been to Trinity twice and it's one of the most delicious restaurants out there. It's rooted in the understanding that food should always be delicious at its foundation, and really delivers on that. The technique is always flawless and the service is the perfect balance of attentive, friendly and informative. It's almost like the front of house staff read you as soon as you walk in and tailor every part of the experience to that. The beef tartare with caviar and bone marrow is and always will be the best tartare in London, while the decor strikes a balance between old school and modern.'
Where: 4 The Polygon, SW4 0JG
Book now: Trinity
Want to taste some Michelin-starred food for yourself? Check out the cheapest Michelin restaurants in the UK for a special meal that won't break the bank, or if you're looking for something with more of a homecooked feel, here are some of the best supper clubs in London to add to your list.