JamieOliver.com

fifteen: A product with a purpose

Fifteen Restaurant, in North London, opened to the public in November 2002. Inspired by Jamie Oliver, the story of Fifteen’s creation was filmed and broadcast on television as Jamie’s Kitchen.

Named after the first cohort of fifteen young people, the restaurant is a commercial business, wholly owned by Fifteen Foundation - a registered charity - which has at its heart a chef apprenticeship for 18 to 24 year olds.

Fifteen is more than a restaurant. It is a social enterprise, offering a product with a purpose. The product is a high end dining experience in a restaurant where the best of produce is prepared by great chefs and apprentices and served by knowledgeable, professional and relaxed people. The purpose is the empowerment of young people who need a second chance to establish their place in the world. It is our belief that they can create for themselves great careers in the restaurant industry.

Inspired by the success of London, Fifteen has been replicated through franchising in Amsterdam (in 2004), Cornwall and Melbourne (in 2006).

Fifteen is ambitious. They would like to open in more communities where there is a market for this style of restaurant and a need amongst young people for a unique hands-on learning culture.