Upmarket fast food restaurant Leon has announced that it will open its second site in September, as part of a £2.8m expansion plan.

Leon – which was launched in July 2004 on Carnaby Street in London – plans to open three more restaurants in London, the first of which will be in Ludgate Circus.

Allegra McEvedy – who jointly runs Leon alongside former chef, Henry Dimbleby, and John Vincent – said: “It’s a fantastic venue for a second site. It is three times as big as our Carnaby Street restaurant and has huge potential.”

Dimbleby added: “People are being forced to decide whether they like flavourful food, satisfying food or quick food. There’s no need to compromise – people should have the option to eat fast food that tastes good and does you good.”

The expansion is mainly being financed by Active Private Equity, which is headed by former BBC chair Gavin Davies.

Other sponsors include James Herler, chief executive of La Tasca, and Ian Neill, chief executive of Wagamama. Details: www.leonrestaurants.co.uk