New Zealander Miles Kirby is Caravan’s Chef/Director and Head Roaster. With over 15 years’ experience in the restaurant industry, he began his career in his hometown of Wellington, New Zealand before moving to the Netherlands where he became sous-chef at The News Café in Gronigen. A move to London in 2001 saw Miles take on the role of Head Chef at the acclaimed The Providores in Marylebone, a position he held until 2009.
In February 2010, Miles opened his first restaurant, Caravan, on Exmouth Market, with friends Laura Harper-Hinton and Chris Ammermann. In 2012, a second site was chosen and Caravan King’s Cross was opened. Miles creates the seasonal menus for both King’s Cross and Exmouth Market, both of which are influenced by his travels. He also works closely with the Caravan Coffee Roasters team to source beans and discover emerging espresso blends.
About Caravan
Caravan is an all-day restaurant, bar and in-house coffee roaster located in London’s Exmouth Market and the Granary Square development in King’s Cross. Caravan’s food and vibe reflects its founders’ antipodean beginnings and nomadic leanings. Miles’ ever-changing ‘well-travelled’ menu draws inspiration from his foodie travels across the globe, yet remains rooted in a commitment to the best local and seasonal produce.
Caravan Coffee Roasters, the in-house coffee roastery at the King’s Cross restaurant, caters for its customer’s caffeine needs at both restaurants, as well as supplying wholesale and retail customers in the capital and around the UK. Notable London restaurants currently serving Caravan coffee include Anna Hansen at the Modern Pantry, Margot Henderson at Rochelle Canteen, St. John and Duck Soup.
Miles’ top tips for entrepreneurs
- Understand your product
- Research your market from supply chain to product delivery
- Evolve with the market but remain true to core values
- Surround yourself with people who share your values and vision
- Take time to build relationships and gain knowledge
For more information about Miles and Caravan, follow Miles Kirby, Caravan King’s Cross and Caravan Exmouth Market on Twitter, or visit the Caravan King’s Cross and Caravan Exmouth Market websites.
