The Yorke Arms to reopen with new-look restaurants
Chef Frances Atkins sold the Harrogate venue to new owner Jonathan Turner in 2017 after 20 years at the helm. She was originally planning to leave the business, but decided to stay on after the two hit it off.
The new-look Michelin-starred restaurant will reopen in mid-July alongside the more relaxed Little Dining Room.
Both will feature menus using produce from the kitchen garden and local suppliers.
The redecorated bedrooms will open soon afterwards, each with an individual Yorkshire theme celebrating the local area.
“Jonathan’s deep-rooted love of Yorkshire, his style and panache are very infectious and it really struck a chord with me,” says Atkins.
“He has a genuine enthusiasm to create something even more special here and we hit it off straight away. I am thrilled to be part of his new team as we set out to deliver new, exciting plans for The Yorke Arms.”
Atkins purchased The Yorke Arms with her husband Bill in 1996 and opened it as a simple brasserie. The food became more sophisticated and saw her become one of the first British women to win a star in 2003.
“When I became aware that The Yorke Arms was up for sale, I knew I had to buy it!” says Turner.
“As a Yorkshireman, I could not bear the thought of someone from out of town buying it. I want it to remain a destination restaurant, with Frances at the helm and retain the Yorkshire heritage.”
