A RESTAURANT in a North Yorkshire Village has won a double whammy at a food and drinks awards night – just one year after opening.
Homestead Kitchen, in Goathland, opened in November 2021, and is the latest venture from chef, Peter Neville, and his partner, Cecily Fearnley.
Having spent most of his adult life in the industry, Peter has built up a reputation as a skilled and creative chef, having worked under Michelin starred chefs Claude Bosi and Andrew Pern.
For the last 12 years he co-owned The Pheasant Hotel in Harome, a thriving country boutique hotel.
They are also joined by Peter Hall, as head chef, who has worked with Neville previously.
Hall has experience of cooking at the three Michelin starred ‘Benu’, in San Francisco, which is said to be one of the best restaurants in America.
He also worked under Phil Howard at the two Michelin starred ‘The Square’ restaurant in London.
When a beautiful property in Goathland, that had at one time been a restaurant, became available, an opportunity presented itself for Peter to put his stamp on a new business, and for his partner Cecily to 'come home' to raise their family and introduce Peter to the beloved village in which she had grown up.
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Despite opening the new restaurant in the winter of the Covid pandemic, within three months it was featured in the Michelin guide - which the owners said was a 'great boost.'
Over the last 12 months business has steadily grown, and the latest accolades come in the form of two awards at this month’s Deliciously Yorkshire Awards.
The couple brought home Best New Business and also Best Use of Local Produce on a Menu.
Speaking on their decision, the judging panel praised Cecily and Peter for their clear connection to the local landscape, their ethos and communication of provenance as well as their dedication to local sourcing which they described as 'outstanding.'
The judges said: “From harvesting their own vegetables, to selecting quality local ingredients which are then treated with the utmost care, this respect and simplicity is a winning combination – Yorkshire pride and passion on a plate – bravo!”
Cecily added: “We were absolutely thrilled to be recognised at the awards, this is more than just a business for us, it’s our home and our passion.
“Trying to get a business up and running with two young children has been a real test, we are fortunate to have an amazing team behind us, not just our staff, but also friends and family who all help out when needed.”
More information on the Homstead Kitchen, can be found on the restaurant’s website.
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