A Quiet Force in London’s Food Scene
If you’ve eaten out in London any time over the last few decades, chances are you’ve crossed paths with Jon Spiteri – even if you didn’t know it. He’s been quietly (and sometimes not so quietly) shaping the city’s hospitality scene for years, with a career that’s taken in everything from The French House Dining Room to St. John, Sessions Arts Club, and beyond.
Jon was one of the original co-founders of St. John alongside Fergus Henderson – whom I’ve had the pleasure of photographing in their respective restaurants. It was great to close that circle and photograph Jon too.
What struck me most was how generous he was with his time. He completely threw himself into the shoot – quite literally at one point, when he lay on the carpet in a beautifully tailored suit and flung a handful of irises into the air. That sort of openness is rare. It turned what could have been a quick portrait into a proper collaboration. We had time to experiment, to chat, to laugh.
Hospitality, at Its Heart, Is About People
It’s no wonder Jon’s been such a success in hospitality. It’s an industry that revolves around making people feel seen and welcome – and Jon’s warmth makes that feel effortless. He was a total joy to photograph.
This shoot is part of an ongoing project I’m working on, exploring the personalities behind London’s hospitality industry – the people who make this city such a brilliant place to eat, drink, and gather.
