Tom Kerridge Defends Michelin-Starred Gastropub Amid Criticism from Disgruntled Diner

High-end chef Tom Kerridge has stood by his Michelin-starred gastropub, The Hand and Flowers, despite criticism from a customer who claimed that the quality of beef offered by the establishment was no better than that found at a cash and carry, such as Costco. The diner's comments sparked a full-on complaint to restaurant manager Katie Mulliss, who informed Kerridge about the issue. While acknowledging the customer's opinion, Kerridge emphasized his confidence in both his establishment and team, stating that they care about every detail and are happy with the quality of their dishes.

Key Takeaways:

• The Hand and Flowers, a Michelin-starred gastropub in Marlow, sources premium ingredients from independent butchers, fishmongers, and vegetable suppliers.
• Despite the high-quality ingredients, a customer complained that the beef served was no better than what could be purchased at a cash and carry like Costco.
• Tom Kerridge emphasized his confidence in his establishment and team, stating that they are very happy with the quality of their dishes.
• Kerridge has previously defended his prices, explaining that his renowned fish and chips, which costs £37, represents a luxury experience with high-quality ingredients.
• He compared his fish and chips to those found in typical chip shops, which are made to different standards and may use frozen fish and cheap oil.
• Kerridge also highlighted the importance of paying staff well and keeping the business afloat, questioning why profit is often seen as a bad word.

Statistics:

• The Hand and Flowers holds two prestigious Michelin stars.
• The gastropub's fish and chips costs £37, which Kerridge explains is a luxury experience with high-quality ingredients.
• Kerridge's establishment sources premium ingredients from independent suppliers.
• The potatoes used in Kerridge's fish and chips are bespoke and individually cut up by a person.
• 100% of dishes served at The Hand and Flowers are made with high-quality ingredients, according to Kerridge.

Sources:

• Pub and Bar Magazine, exact quote from Tom Kerridge about the disgruntled diner.
• Great British Menu judge, Tom Kerridge's tweet about the prices at The Hand and Flowers.