W L FOOD & DRINK
ALL CHANGE ...
BY PAUL ASKEW , CHEF PATRON OF THE ART SCHOOL RESTAURANT
As we say goodbye to British summertime we welcome one of my favourite seasons of the year , Autumn . The array of root vegetables and squashes , the arrival of game and the first lighting of the Art School fires signifies the run up to one of our busiest times in the restaurant .
Of course , this year has been very different to normal years . Since my last column our region , our people and our industry is , once again , dealing with significant change . And , once again , we will find our way through .
I have been humbled by the large number of our guests , who , following their visits to us , have taken to social media and review sites to praise the work of our team at the restaurant for providing a “ normal ” experience in these challenging times . “ For a few hours in the Art School life felt normal again ” wrote one reviewer , powerful words and a welcome testament to the work the entire team , from our dedicated housekeeping staff to our front-of-house and kitchen brigade put in every day to help you feel safe and ensure your safety with us .
I have recognised that for some people the thought of eating out is too difficult and so , with the support of Vincent , my senior Sous Chef , we have developed menus to click and collect from the restaurant . Everything is prepared by our kitchen team and packed in a protective environment for you to collect , safely delivered at a suitable distance to the boot of your car , ready for you to cook and serve at home . The Art School At Home is available to order from the shop section of our website should you wish to peruse at your own leisure …
We are still planning on delivering you a special Christmas at the restaurant and bookings , despite recent announcements and restrictions , continue to be made . I understand , for many , the focus is on day-to-day and week-to-week but if you are able , make your reservation early to ensure you get the dates that you want as we will have a reduced availability from previous years .
We will be preparing , albeit in limited numbers , a special Christmas “ Art School at Home ” takeaway menu , more details of which will be in our newsletter and website in early November .
The restaurant continues to open for lunch and dinner service Thursday to Sunday and we have also accommodated additional dining tables in the Cellars to welcome guests on these days .
Your food will be prepared by , amongst others , the UK ’ s National Young Chef of The Year 2021 , with the prestigious title bestowed to our very own Edwin Kuk earlier in the month following a cook off competition in London . It is the first time the region has had a winner and is a real tonic for the team and I .
And finally , before I return to the pass , we have also created a number of special “ hampers ” available from our Emporium , great as a gift or to enjoy yourself , after all this year you most definitely deserve it !
Much love Chef Askew
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