A chef trained by Jamie Oliver has been appointed to run the restaurant at a city hotel.
Mercure Oxford Hawkwell House Hotel has appointed Anthony Pitcher as its new Head Chef to help put the venue on the map as a go-to dining destination in the city.
The boutique hotel has appointed Mr Pitcher to introduce a fresh new concept to its signature restaurant Frank’s.
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He has more than 15 years of experience working in high-level kitchens and a wealth of fine dining expertise.
He was originally trained by celebrity chefs Jamie Oliver and Gennaro Contaldo and has since held a range of senior positions in restaurants across Oxfordshire and the south before owning and managing his own restaurant ‘POP?’.
Mr Pitcher will work alongside newly appointed Sous Chef Paul Wilson to deliver fresh seasonal menus in Frank’s restaurant as well as oversee the catering for large events, weddings, parties and conferences hosted at the Iffley based hotel.
Through his passion for the highest quality, local ingredients, the new head chef hopes to transform the hotel’s dining offering and make it a go-to culinary destination in Oxfordshire.
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“It’s a fantastic venue and I’m eager to put my stamp on our food and beverage offering and bring something slightly different to the city.
“The restaurant’s new focus will be British ingredient-led seasonal food. We hope to create a relaxed, fun atmosphere by serving dishes that are engaging and memorable.
“Whether we are designing a tasting menu for a celebration dinner or looking after an event, we want to deliver exciting memories.”
The hotel’s main restaurant Frank’s is open every day of the week for breakfast and dinner. Throughout winter months, the hotel will serve a selection of roasts every Sunday which it hopes will attract local groups of families and friends.
Hawkwell House also has various versatile event spaces which guests can book for parties, weddings, private dining and corporate events.
The new chef will work closely with guests to design bespoke menus for events and private dinners.
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To help the hotel deliver contemporary and seasonal menus to guests all year round, it has linked up with Oxfordshire artisan food and drink suppliers to source the best fresh, local produce.
“We have recently started working with two new super local suppliers that will enable us to serve up delicious, freshly prepared food whilst minimising food miles.”
General manager Nick Jefford added: “We are pleased to announce Anthony has joined the team.
“His combined years of experience and creative flair make him an exciting addition to the team. We are looking forward to transforming the menus and making the hotel a destination in Oxford for friends, families and colleagues to get together to enjoy a great meal.”
The hotel is located just a short walk from Iffley Lock on the River Thames.
Restaurant bookings can be made via the website: https://mercureoxfordhawkwellhouse.com/
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