Top chefs open restaurant at Hever Castle

Top chefs Albert Roux OBE and Legion d'Honneur officially launched THE GUTHRIE PAVILION restaurant last week at Hever Castle.

Hosted by head chef Les Woolven, guests were served up treats such as miniature cakes, muffins and pastries, rose jellies and scones with jam and cream on the afternoon tea table.

On the truly local table was produce from within 50 miles of the castle, meanwhile the seafood table served up mini fish (in beer batter) and chips, salmon and seared scallops and finally a carvery table treated guests to mini Yorkshire puddings, suckling pig with apple sauce and beef carved by one of the chefs.

The Pavilion restaurant was formerly housed in a 1970s style building in need of renovation. Now, the exterior of the building has been completely overhauled with the introduction of stone columns and an English oak pergola, with wood locally sourced from the castle's estate.  French doors along the length of the building lead out onto an extensive seating area paved with sandstone.  

The interior has also undergone a considerable change with a multi-vaulted ceiling letting in natural sunlight, a classic design palette of pastel colours, soft lighting, stylish furnishings and an oak floor. 

Day visitors will find two eating areas; the Guthrie Café will provide a counter service offering light refreshments and afternoon tea, whilst the Guthrie Restaurant will provide a table service offering more substantial meals.  Hever's corporate guests will be able to use the restaurant for private functions seating over 200, making it one of the biggest function facilities in the county.

Hever Castle's chief executive Duncan Leslie said: "We are absolutely delighted with the restoration of the Guthrie Pavilion. The 1970s building has undergone a huge transformation over the last six months to become a magnificent eatery and entertaining space. The new Pavilion now perfectly complements its surrounding environment and its historical setting. 

"We wanted to create an exceptional dining experience for our day visitors and we believe that the beautifully renovated Pavilion and outstanding food offering will do just that. The new Pavilion will also offer our corporate and wedding guests a unique backdrop to their special occasion."

Words: Maria Bracken

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