Review on Cheals of Henley
Cheals of Henley is a welcome addition to the dining scene in the market town of Henley in Arden, well known for its variety of historic buildings. Located in the premises that once housed Andy Waters Edmunds restaurant, it is set on the one mile high street that is a designated conservation area. The original structure with it's black and white façade is a lovely building that can trace its roots back to the 17th century. The new owner is Matt Cheal, who was the former Head Chef of the Michelin-starred Simpsons restaurant in Birmingham.
The interiors have been lovingly and sympathetically restored whilst retaining the charming character of the building, and displays its original wooden beams and open fires. Plush blue velvet chairs are set against well spaced tables laid with crisp white linen. Sparkling chandeliers illuminate the cosy room and a stags head is mounted above the fireplace. A nice touch is the waiting room with two leopard print seats, where the TV screen shows the chefs at work.
Matt's accomplished cooking has set a high standard, with impeccable seasonal produce sourced locally and from France, together with foraged ingredients. Open your slate with ham hock and corn fed chicken terrine, 'Picalilli' vegetables or lobster and salmon ravioli, fennel, Avruga caviar amongst the starters. Main courses bring on board a duo of beef, fillet and cheek, salt baked celeriac, pickled walnuts and grapes or sea bass, brown shrimps, clams, broccoli, and black quinoa. Desserts are pretty assemblages, witness, honey parfait, Earl Grey crémeux, orange and liquorice sorbet or Valhrona chocolate and blackberry bomb.
The wine list offers a great selection of wines from around the globe, and ex-Simpson's restaurant manager, Yannick Raymond ensures that everything runs smoothly.
Cuisine
Modern European
Chef
Matt Cheal
Restaurant Opening Times
Lunch: 12.30 - 3.00pm Wed-Sat (12.00 - 3.00pm Sun)
Dinner: 7.00 - 9.30pm Wed-Thu (6.00 - 9.30pm Fri & Sat)
Accepted credit cards
Visa, Master Card