Celebrated chef and TV star, John Burton-Race, has landed a job at Cheltenham's rooftop restaurant, joining The Nook on Five as executive head chef.
With a career spanning 35 years, John has worked in some of the UK's best restaurants, including Raymond Blanc's two Michelin star Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons.
He's also made a name for himself as a TV personality — you might recognise him from his Channel 4 series French Leave, its sequel Return of the Chef or ITV's I'm a Celebrity... Get Me Out of Here, where he clashed with Janice Dickinson over her dislike of exotic meat in 2007.
As executive head chef, John is shaking up The Nook's menu with fresh twists on its modern British classics, as well as introducing new dishes and seasonal specials.
Available from Monday 3 February 2025, menu highlights include an Italian-style wild boar ragu and a new signature smash burger, with more classic English, French and Italian desserts — including John's to-die-for tiramisu.
With Valentine's Day just around the corner, John has also created a seven-course tasting menu for the dreamiest date night — featuring roasted hake drizzled in Champagne butter with caviar and a dessert worthy of any Parisian patisserie — available from Saturday 8 to Friday 14 February 2025.
John will also help to extend the already popular Nook Deli with more French delicacies like gateaux and fruit tartlets, crafted in-house by The Nook’s fine dining chefs.
Commenting on his new role, John said: 'I’m delighted to be joining The Nook on Five as executive head chef and am really looking forward to putting my own spin on the menu and the dining experience as a whole. The restaurant is known for its classic, modern British menu — traditional, staple dishes.
'With the new daytime and a la carte menus, diners can expect to find those fan favourites still, but perhaps with a slight twist that we’re sure they’ll enjoy. We’re also adding some fresh dishes, pulling inspiration from my time in top restaurants around the world to offer guests something new and refreshing, as well as food they know and love
'The Nook is a family run business with fine dining quality; I think that really shines through when you visit, but it’s also evidenced by its reputation and unique rooftop setting. I will be working with the team to build on this success, putting The Nook on Five on the map as the best restaurant in Cheltenham.'
For reservations, visit The Nook on Five's website.
