Opened on 26th March 2026, Teal by Sally Abé is a modern bistro in Hackney, celebrating the very best of British produce and recipes in an intimate and welcoming setting.
Whilst this marks Sally’s first solo restaurant, her CV speaks for itself, with time spent at Claridge’s (one Michelin Star), The Ledbury (three Michelin Stars), The Pem, where Gratte Brothers completed the kitchen refurbishment and most recently, The Bull at Charlbury.
Named after her favourite native game bird, Teal is located on Wilton Way in a characterful, yet compact space. Working within its constraints required a smart, space-efficient kitchen capable of delivering a high-end menu, which Gratte Brothers | Foodservice Solutions was selected to deliver.
We recently spoke with Sally to hear more about her inspiration for Teal, the dishes she’s most excited for guests to try, and why she chose to work with Gratte Brothers once again.
Can you tell us a little about the restaurant and what guests can expect.
Teal is all about celebrating and using the best of British produce but in an intimate, welcoming and cozy atmosphere. What I think guests can expect is nostalgic British classics but with a twist!
What inspired you to take on this project and bring your vision to this new space?
I’ve wanted my own restaurant for 20 years since I first started cooking but timing is everything and so, when this space popped up, I just knew that it was right time, right place.
Is there one dish you’re especially excited for guests to try when the doors open?
I think from the soft openings we’ve had, that the most popular dishes are the Crab Royale and the Knife and Fork Bacon. What that is, is bacon that we cure in house and the whole idea of ‘Knife and Fork’ bacon is that it’s just too good to put in a sandwich!
What made you choose to work with Gratte Brothers for the refurbishment of the bar and catering facilities?
I worked with Gratte Brothers previously at The Pem on a large kitchen refurbishment project and they’re just great to work with, a pleasure really! When you find a space, you know what you want but once you’re in, things are never quite as you expected and you need people who can adapt and make on the spot decisions and who can accommodate changes.
What were your priorities when planning the kitchen and service areas for this restaurant?
We’re working with a small kitchen here so the priority from the start was making everything very user friendly, efficient and easy to navigate during a busy service. Particularly in a space of this size, the layout and details are so important, it all has to function and work together.
What kind of experience do you hope guests leave with after dining here?
I want guests to feel like they’re come into my living room, into my house to enjoy a good meal and just while away an afternoon or evening.
Describe the restaurant in three words.
Welcoming. Intimate. Surprising!
Teal represents a significant milestone for Sally Abé, brought to life through a clear vision and collaborative approach. With a carefully designed kitchen by Gratte Brothers supporting an ambitious yet intimate menu, the restaurant demonstrates how thoughtful planning and strong partnerships can transform even the most compact spaces into something exceptional.