Boxcar Launches Its Third Venue: Bread & Wine in Connaught Village

Boxcar, the beloved collection of neighbourhood eateries, is excited to announce the opening of its latest addition, Boxcar Bread & Wine, on Tuesday, 15th October. Nestled in the charming Connaught Village, just moments from Hyde Park, this new venue will offer freshly baked pastries, seasonal lunch options, and hand-roasted coffee during the day, before transforming into a cosy restaurant and wine bar in the evening (evening service to launch in November).

To celebrate the opening, Bread & Wine will treat the first 100 customers to a free Pain au Chocolat on Saturday, 26th October, starting at 10am – available on a first-come, first-served basis. This launch also marks a major milestone for Boxcar, unveiling a bold new brand identity and website that reflects the group’s evolution.

Designed as a lively neighbourhood hub, Boxcar Bread & Wine features spacious wrap-around windows that fill the space with natural light, highlighting the earthy colour tones, warm timber finishes, and rich plaster textures. The interior blends a palette of natural materials, creating a welcoming atmosphere for both locals and visitors. Guests can enjoy breakfast, brunch, or lunch in a relaxed yet refined setting, while the evening service promises an intimate dining experience.

Leading the culinary experience at Bread & Wine is Head Chef Zisis Gkalmpenis, who will oversee both daytime and evening menus. Fusing local and global influences, Chef Gkalmpenis crafts a menu that celebrates the finest British meats and seasonal produce. Drawing on his Greek heritage and expertise in Mediterranean, Scandinavian, and Japanese culinary traditions, he adds a creative twist to traditional British fare.

“We're here to elevate British flavours by weaving in global influences, creating a menu that’s both exciting and accessible. At Bread & Wine, every dish tells a story, inviting guests to discover something new with each visit – whether it's a comforting classic or an adventurous twist,” Chef Gkalmpenis explains.

The daytime menu, launching on 15th October, highlights Boxcar’s commitment to high-quality, farm-fresh ingredients with a variety of breakfast, brunch, and lunch options. Expect seasonal salads, sandwiches, two signature breads, and daily specials that showcase local produce. 

Daytime menu highlights include:

• Vanilla Bean Ricotta Tartine with Honey and Toasted Walnuts

• Wild Mushroom Risotto with Crispy Sage and Parmesan

• Kimchi & Smoked Applewood Cheddar Toastie

In the evenings, Boxcar Bread & Wine will transition into a sophisticated yet welcoming venue, featuring an array of small plates and sharing dishes such as Aged Hereford Ribeye with Red Onion and Anchovy Butter, Pan-Roasted Cornish Sea Bass with Fennel and Lemon, and Artisanal British Cheeses served with a signature House-Made Sourdough Bread and Dips.

Special attention has been given to the daytime pastry selection, crafted by Executive Pastry Chef Liza Kermanidou. Patrons can indulge in beloved classics like the buttery Pain au Chocolat and vibrant Matcha Croissant, alongside signature creations – including Orange Blossom Brioche, Cinnamon Rice Pudding Danish with roasted plums, and Poached Pear Danish with mascarpone cream and caramelised pecans. Savoury options include the Shimeji Mushroom and Jarlsberg Cheese Danish, Nduja Lamb Roll topped with Lincolnshire Cheese, and the tangy Kimchi and Cheddar Pan Swiss.

“Our pastry selection at Bread & Wine is crafted with utmost care, featuring beloved classics like the Pain au Chocolat and Matcha Croissant alongside innovative options like the Nduja Lamb Roll,” says Executive Pastry Chef Liza Kermanidou. “These pastries not only showcase our commitment to quality but also reflect the creative spirit of Boxcar.”