The owner of "Norfolk's oldest restaurant" has settled fears that the beloved eatery is shutting up shop following a shock announcement.
STORE, Stoke Mill's Michelin-starred dining experience, will close this September because of the loss of its head chef, Liam Nichols. This announcement saw owner Ludo Iaccarino receive an influx of panicked calls and emails asking if the Mill Road business was finished.
But Ludo, who has run Stoke Mill since his father's passing in 2013, said this was far from the truth.
"It is true that STORE, our amazing fine dining experience, is going away - but Stoke Mill is not going anywhere.
"It's Norfolk's oldest restaurant and is doing well despite the tough times we're all currently going through."
The dining room where STORE was located will be used instead as a private dining room with a new taster menu cooked up by sous chef Hazel Yuill. The new tastes and smells will be served to parties of eight to 16 from September 1, as well as at people's homes if preferred.
A History Steeped in Tradition
Stoke Mill dates back to 1814 when the Colmans started milling and making mustard using the power of running water. Ludo's father Rio, who was originally from Sorrento in Italy, bought it in the 1960s and turned it into a high-end dining spot with a retro feel. When Rio passed away in 2013, Ludo invited top chef Andy Rudd to join him in the business and the pair restored the mill to what it is today.
A New Era of Culinary Delights
The closure of STORE, while a significant change, marks the beginning of a new era for Stoke Mill. The private dining room, with its new tasting menu, will offer a more intimate and personalized dining experience. Hazel Yuill, the sous chef, is poised to take the reins, bringing her own culinary vision to the table. The new menu will feature a curated selection of dishes, showcasing fresh, local ingredients and innovative techniques.
Beyond the Restaurant Walls
The expansion of Stoke Mill's services beyond the restaurant walls reflects a growing trend in the hospitality industry. Offering off-site catering and private dining experiences allows businesses to reach a wider audience and cater to diverse needs. Stoke Mill's decision to offer private dining in people's homes is particularly innovative, bringing a touch of culinary artistry to the comfort of home.
A Culinary Legacy Continues
Stoke Mill's story is one of resilience and adaptability. Through the years, it has weathered storms and embraced change, ensuring its place as a beloved landmark in Norfolk. The closure of STORE may have caused initial concern, but it is ultimately a testament to Stoke Mill's commitment to innovation and its desire to stay relevant in a rapidly evolving culinary landscape. With the introduction of the new private dining experience and off-site catering, Stoke Mill is poised for a new chapter, one that promises to delight and engage diners for many years to come.
