For many, the idea of dining at a Michelin-starred restaurant conjures images of extravagant dishes and a bill that demands a deep breath. However, one establishment in Buckinghamshire is shattering that expensive stereotype, earning the title of the UK's most affordable Michelin-star experience.
A Michelin-Starred Pub with a Relaxed Vibe
The Coach in Marlow, owned by celebrated chef Tom Kerridge, offers a remarkable three-course set lunch for just £25. This isn't a fleeting promotion but a core part of the venue's identity, available every Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday. The menu changes weekly to showcase the best of seasonal British produce.
To illustrate, a recent week's offering included a Warm New Potato & Salt Cod Salad, followed by Beef Chilli with Sour Cream, and finished with a Vanilla Bean Panna Cotta with Blood Orange. Diners can also opt for two courses at a cost of £20.
Beyond the Set Menu: Accessible Gourmet Dining
The main à la carte menu continues the theme of accessible luxury. Patrons can enjoy dishes like The Coach Burger, complete with Crispy Mac 'n' Cheese, BBQ Pulled Pork and Smoked Mozzarella, for £25.50. A Braised Lamb Shoulder with Smoked Onion is priced at £29.50. The most expensive standalone main is the Jerk Spiced Monkfish with Sweetcorn & Chilli Salsa and Bourbon Barbeque Sauce for £38.
Former Head Chef Sarah Hayward, who now works at Kerridge's other pub, The Hand and Flowers, highlighted the venue's unique atmosphere in a 2023 interview. She described The Coach as "a special little place" that is "very unintimidating" for a Michelin-starred restaurant. "We have Sky Sports on, we serve burgers and chips. It's super-accessible," Hayward noted, also praising the open kitchen that lets chefs see the immediate joy their food brings to guests.
Award-Winning History and New Leadership
The Coach opened its doors in 2014 and received its coveted Michelin star in the 2018 Michelin Guide, a testament to its consistent quality despite its approachable prices and setting. In May 2025, Bradley Cacela was announced as the new Head Chef. Cacela expressed his excitement at the time, calling it a fantastic opportunity from Tom Kerridge and his first head chef role.
The news comes after Tom Kerridge recently defended the standards at his other Michelin-starred pub, The Hand and Flowers, following a customer's complaint that compared its beef unfavourably to that from Costco. Kerridge responded diplomatically, stating that while he completely disagreed with the assessment, everyone is entitled to their opinion.
The Coach stands as a compelling example of how fine dining can be demystified and made welcoming, proving that a Michelin star can shine just as brightly in a relaxed pub serving brilliant, affordable food.
