The first North East chef to get two Michelin stars is coming to Yorkshire
The first North East chef to attract two Michelin stars is coming over to Yorkshire, it has been revealed.
Raby Hunt made history as the first restaurant to be awarded two Michelin stars in the North East, now its esteemed chef patron James Close will be making his way over to North Yorkshire.
As the former head chef of the now-closed restaurant in Summerhouse, County Durham, Close has arrived in God’s Own Country to start a new culinary adventure as his old site goes up for sale.
The restaurant, which is owned by Close’s parents, is currently on the market for £750,000. It is also available to let, with Close’s parents saying they hope that “in the hands of a capable and experienced chef operator, this premises can retain its reputation for being a go-to for diners, both locally and from further afield.”
The news marks the start of a new chapter for Raby Hunt chef Close – who is entirely self-trained and intends to create a world-class, 5-star culinary destination with unique and varied gourmet experiences.
Taking on the role of Culinary Director, he will open a new, as-yet unnamed restaurant inside Darlington country house Rockliffe Hall alongside his wife, Maria, and his Head Chef Adam Molloy.
He officially joins the hotel this February, with the new restaurant set to open later in 2024.
Speaking on the move away from Raby Hunt, Close said: “To join Rockliffe Hall as culinary director is an incredible opportunity and the perfect progression to take everything we have developed and achieved at the Baby Hunt to the next level.
“I’m always striving to do better and I’m looking forward to being part of an ambitious team that wants to lead the way in the culinary hotel space and modernise what a luxury country hotel offers its guests across gastronomy, service, and experience.
-
Award-winning North Yorkshire Tasting Menu with Champagne
- Michelin Guide recommended
- Rave reviews
- SAVE up to 19%
“I’m very thankful to all the people who have believed in us and been involved in our journey so far – repeat diners, guests travelling from further afield, chefs, suppliers, and Michelin, which has played a big part in my career – and we look forward to our continued relationship with all of them.”
Featured image – Raby Hunt via Instagram
DON’T MISS…
Scotch Whisky Tasting at Liquor Studio, Leeds
156a Lower Briggate, Leeds LS1 6LY- Sample five premium whiskies from regions in the Scottish Highlands.
- SAVE 15%
£40 Three’s A Crowd Harrogate Restaurant Voucher
11 West Park, Harrogate HG1 1BL- Town centre gastropub which oozes laid back, refined cool
- Showcasing the best seasonal ingredients
- SAVE 20%
2-hour Bottomless Brunch at Malmaison York
- Bottomless brunch in the heart of York
- Chez Mal menu & choice of drinks
- SAVE 16%
Silversmiths Sheffield Evening Dining & Drinks
Silversmiths, Sheffield S1 2NT- Renowned Sheffield city centre restaurant
- Expect colourful, modern plates of local produce
- SAVE up to 22%
Majestic Hotel Harrogate Afternoon Tea
Ripon Road, Harrogate HG1 2HU- Victorian 4 Star hotel in the heart of Harrogate
- Choose from Traditional, Prosecco or Champagne Afternoon Tea
- SAVE up to 22%
3-Course Sunday Lunch at The York, Sheffield
243 - 247 Fulwood Road, Sheffield S10 3BA- Traditional pub classics and a selection of beers, ales, spirits and wines
- Renowned as one of Sheffield’s best pubs
- SAVE 25%
Written by
13/02/2024