An early Christmas present for local foodies! Award winning chef Dominic Chapman, is set to open his first restaurant in Henley, offering his unique take on classic British dishes.

Based in the The Relais Henley, Chapman will be acting as executive chef and will be overseeing and setting up the brand new yet to be named restaurant due to open early 2024, along with his long-term colleague David Thompson as head chef.

With a strong focus on British produce, the 60-cover restaurant will offer breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea and dinner to guests.

Chapman is a multi-award winning chef, with a Michelin star to his name during his time at the Royal Oak in Paley Street, as well as Michelin guide recognition at The Crown in Burchett’s Green and the Beehive in Maidenhead. 

With a plethora of stars, rosettes and accolades Dom Chapman’s appointment at The Relais will certainly exert some excitement within the foodie circles of Henley.

Dishes will include Smoked Eel, Beetroot, Horseradish Cream; Soused Sardines; Rabbit and Bacon Terrine, Cumberland Sauce; Cornish Turbot, Samphire, Monks Beard, Cockles, Mussels, Lemon Butter; Lancashire Hot Pot, Pickled Red Cabbage; Oxtail and Kidney Pie & Mash. And to finish things off desserts such as Chocolate Fondant, Toffee Sauce, Almond Biscuit, Coffee Ice Cream. 

Alongside the main restaurant, guests will also be able to enjoy exclusive use and hire of numerous private dining spaces within the hotel.

“We’re all incredibly excited about the opening of the restaurant”, says Chapman. “Henley is a beautiful town, and the perfect setting for the style of food we want to introduce to the area. For me, food needs to be uncomplicated and ingredient-led. We know the area really well and will be working closely with local suppliers to make sure we can utilise the brilliant produce we have on our doorstep.”

Owner of The Relais Henley Grace Leo added, “We are delighted to welcome Dominic to the area and cannot wait to share his wonderful cooking with our local community. We share a common passion in providing excellence in the English art of living and dining.” 

This is a great move by The Relais Henley. Will he be bringing his signature starter, Lasagne of Wild Rabbit, Wood Blewits & Chervil to The Relais? We hope so!

Image credit (top): BBC