Meet Cojean, a healthy French fast-food restaurant in London. They first opened their doors in Paris in 2001 and have since expanded their delicious offerings into the UK. Whether you’re an omnivore, vegetarian, pescetarian, flexitarian or anything in between, you can expect to find something perfect for you. With an abundance of options, they are the perfect choice for your next office lunch!
In addition to being healthy fast food with a focus on sustainability and organic food, Cojean has been a B Corp recognised business since June 2019. This is a historic first for the French fast-food industry. We had the chance to ask Cojean’s UK Managing Director, Vincent, a few questions about the restaurant and his thoughts and insights on the food industry.
Q: What’s the inspiration behind your business?
A: “Eating is just the start” is our motto. We are convinced that our mission is to nurture body and mind, consciously balanced with nature through healthy food, to cultivate a better world.
Q: Where is the founder from and how has that shaped the business?
A: Starting as a student working at McDonald’s in France, Alain Cojean climbed the corporate ladder for 15 years. However, he began to see gaps in the food market for healthy options and sought to create a place balancing food quality, operational efficiency and social responsibility. This led to the creation of Cojean in 2001, as a pioneer in “fast-good”. For nearly 20 years Cojean has been a leader in the fast-good food sector in France, paving the way with unparalleled quality, elevated service and a deep social commitment. That can now be found in 6 restaurants across London.
Q: How would you describe your food in 5 words?
A: Fresh, healthy, delicious, balanced and seasonal/respectful of the environment.
Q: What’s your favourite meal on your menu? And what item on your menu do you think represents your brand best?
A: I am a big fan of our toasties, a truly different product than the toasties found elsewhere on the market. We make them with fresh ingredients, organic seeded bread, and homemade sauce. Our recipes are seasonal and have a good twist to make them delicious and healthy.
Q: What’s the most underrated item on your menu?
A: Definitely our egg brioches, there is no equivalent anywhere else! Our bread is brioché, our sauce is creamy as it should be, the free-range omelette isn’t dry at all, and we have the cheesy touch!
Q: What’s your favourite part of working in this industry?
A: See our customers smiling and feeling good!
Q: What should we order from you when we want to celebrate?
A: Our extra salmon brioché! We source sustainable smoked salmon, make a sweet fresh sauce with granny smith apples & radish and then we add some fresh dill.
Q: What is your top tip for eating better?
A: Listen to your body! You are your best friend.
After a big heavy meal, you’ll likely crave something fresh and healthy. On the other hand, after eating healthy, feel free to enjoy some junk food! Life is all about balance and Cojean has something for all appetites.
Q: Is there anything you’d like to share that highlights what makes your business stand out?
A: Cojean has been a B Corp-certified company since June 2019 – a historic first in the French fast food scene.
Certified B Corp companies are businesses that meet the highest standards of verified social and environmental performances, public transparency and legal accountability to balance profit and purpose. Cojean has been analysed to fit all the requirements and sees the certification as a stronger stance for the ethical approach we want to emphasise daily.
Q: What part of your business are you most passionate about and why?
A: Our concept attaches fundamental importance not only to the products but also to the people. Having a welcoming environment and customer satisfaction are strong parts of the concept.
Q: What’s the ingredient you always find yourself reaching for when you’re cooking at home?
A: Tahini, seasonal vegetables and all types of grains.
Q: What are you up to when you’re not in the kitchen?
A: Sports to bring good energy!
Order Cojean to your office
If you’re looking for a healthy and exciting lunch choice, you’ll love Cojean. Check out all the great options on the menu for your next office meal!
