Celebrity chefs promote Oxford as gastro-city

But now a group of celebrity chefs and culinary experts are hoping to make the city known for its food as well.

Those signed up to the new group include celebrity chef Raymond Blanc, whose Le Manoir aux Quat’ Saisons at Great Milton boasts two Michelin stars, and one-starred Mike North, who owns The Nut Tree in Murcott, near Kidlington.

The idea is to drive up standards, increase the transparency of food sourcing to support local producers and make Oxfordshire a leading destination for food lovers.

It is also planned to encourage restaurants to contribute more to the city’s cultural life, by throwing open their doors as venues for musical, literary and artistic activities.

The move is being spearheaded by Oxford Gastronomica, Oxford Brookes University’s specialist centre for the study of food, drink and culture – and so far 15 restaurants have signed up.

Donald Sloan, head of the university’s school of hospitality management, said: “Oxford is known for a number of things like high culture and education, we would very much like it to be known for its food as well.”

The new group has has been backed by celebrity chef Ken Hom, who has links with Brookes.

He said: “At a time when restaurant customers are more informed and demanding than every, this very ambitious project is extremely welcome.

“These chefs and restaurateurs are making a bold statement – that through their efforts they will establish Oxfordshire as one of the UK’s most impressive destinations for dining out.”

Andrew Norton, owner of the Jam Factory in Hollybush Row, Oxford, hosted last night’s launch.

He said: “We are going to share knowledge and raise standards.

“People don’t need to look too far to find raw talent and great restaurants.”

Other restaurants signed up include The Ashmolean Dining Room, The Old Parsonage, The Randolph Hotel, The Malmaison, Brasserie Blanc, La Cucina, Jacobs and Field, The Jam Factory and The Magdalen Arms, all in Oxford, and The Mole in Toot Baldon.