The North East’s top restaurant, which is celebrating a decade in business, has received a very special gift.
As it celebrates its 10th birthday this week (6 October), The Raby Hunt, at Summerhouse, near Darlington, has learned it has retained its two Michelin stars, for the third year running.
The Michelin Guide 2020 launched this week (8 October), unveiling its annual list of the movers and shakers in the world of cookery.
Run by self-taught chef, James Close, The Raby Hunt is the only restaurant in the region to hold two stars and one of only 23 two-star restaurants in the country.
It was also recently named the 13th best restaurant in the country by The Good Food Guide.
“Every chef wants a Michelin star,” said James, “and to have managed to retain our two stars for the third year running is absolutely wonderful.
“It is one thing earning two stars and quite another keeping them,” he said. “My team and I have to be at the top of our game every single day and this accolade is proof that I have one of the best teams in the business.
“Getting The Raby Hunt to this standard – and keeping it there – is an immense pleasure and privilege and I’d like to thank everyone at the restaurant and all our customers, too.
“They are the ultimate judges – if it wasn’t for them the restaurant wouldn’t be celebrating its 10th birthday, let alone its two stars.”
James’ innovative 15 course tasting menu prides itself on using seasonal ingredients, presented in a theatrical and visually stunning fashion.
And, along with the restaurant, The Raby Hunt – in a 200-year-old inn – has three rooms offering overnight accommodation to guests.
For further information visit www.rabyhuntrestaurant.co.uk.