Peckham has long been known for its vibrant culture, but now, it's about to add another culinary star to its roster. Nathaniel Mortley, better known as Natty Can Cook, is bringing his passion for food and his unique Caribbean-inspired dishes to the Greyhound Pub on Peckham High Street. But this isn’t just a story of culinary success—it's a tale of redemption, resilience, and the transformative power of second chances.

At just 16 years old, Mortley’s life took a dramatic turn when he was stabbed, an event that set off a chain of unfortunate circumstances leading to his incarceration at HMP Brixton in 2019. But it was within those prison walls that Mortley discovered his true calling. Through the Clink charity’s rehabilitation programme, which trains prisoners in the culinary arts, Mortley found not only a career but a new purpose in life.

“I know the power hospitality can have to help achieve your goals and dreams,” Mortley reflects, acknowledging the life-changing impact of his time in the Clink’s kitchens. It was there, amidst the heat and pressure of a professional kitchen, that Mortley’s passion for cooking blossomed. Inspired by the flavours of his Caribbean heritage and the precise techniques of French cuisine, he began to craft dishes that told his story.

Now, Mortley is stepping into the spotlight with a permanent residency at the Greyhound, a trendy local pub that reopened in March 2024 under the direction of the team behind East London’s renowned dance venue, The Cause. Located just metres from where Mortley grew up, the Greyhound holds special significance for the chef. Encouraged by family members to pursue his passion, Mortley has gone from cooking in an inmate-run restaurant to working in prestigious kitchens like the Shard and City Social, the latter under the guidance of celebrated chef Jason Atherton.

Mortley’s menu at the Greyhound is a celebration of his journey and the flavours that have defined it. From BBQ black cod with coriander and roasted corn to rice and peas arancini, soft shell crab, and plantain cake with white chocolate and lime, each dish blends Caribbean classics with a sophisticated twist, all executed with the precision of French techniques.

But Mortley’s vision extends beyond the kitchen. His mission is to open a charity, starting at the Greyhound, that will provide opportunities for others who, like him, need a second chance. “We’ll be working closely with The Clink to begin with, sourcing our chefs directly from the project, and with time, our mission is only going to get bigger,” Mortley shares.

As he embarks on this new chapter, Mortley’s story serves as a powerful reminder that no matter how dark the path, with the right support and determination, a brighter future is always within reach. The Greyhound, with its eclectic mix of DJ nights, quizzes, karaoke, and live sports, is now more than just a pub—it’s a place where one man’s extraordinary journey continues to inspire and uplift the community.

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