Roost is opening in the railway arches on Winchelsea Road
Local trio Andrew Neilson, Amil Ourabah, and Jake Salter are teaming up to turn the former Can Club site in the Winchelsea Road arches into Roost, a rotisserie chicken spot centred around corn-fed, responsibly sourced and 100% halal birds flavoured with a bespoke Algerian spice blend.
The concept is taking inspiration from ex-Coach & Horses chef Amil Ourabah’s Algerian heritage, who, along with smoking master Jake Salter, has developed Roost’s spice blend and cooking process, which includes dry brining the chickens for 24 hours. As well as the main event, Roost will also be serving wine, beers from East London breweries, and cocktails created in collaboration with the Golden Pineapple in Brighton. Expect serves like the Algerian Grandfather, a take an Old Fashioned made with date syrup, honey, and cinnamon, and the Le Marguerite, made with tequila, harissa-infused mezcal and a chicken salt rim.
Speaking about the opening, co-founder Andrew Neilson (the great-nephew of Terrance Messenger, the last Mayor of Leyton) said: “Growing up here, we’ve seen the area change, but that core community spirit is what we want to protect. We’re focusing on ‘quality without exclusion’—offering a premium menu at an accessible price point (£15 for a half / £25 for a full). Whether it’s our Halal sourcing or our dedicated backyard kids’ play area, Roost is designed for the people who actually live here.”
Key Information
Opening date | early June 2026
Address | 361 Winchelsea Road, London, E7 0AQ
For more information | @roost_e7
