Fine dining and a hefty bill are often seen as inseparable, but one Buckinghamshire restaurant is challenging that notion head-on. The Coach, located in the heart of Marlow and owned by celebrity chef Tom Kerridge, holds the title of the UK's most affordable Michelin-starred establishment.
A Michelin Star on a Budget
Since opening its doors in 2014, The Coach has carved out a unique niche. It was awarded its coveted Michelin star in the 2018 guide, yet it has steadfastly maintained a reputation for accessibility and value. The key to its appeal is a relaxed, informal pub setting where diners can enjoy refined takes on classic dishes without the formal atmosphere often associated with starred venues.
The lunch menu is a particular highlight, offering two courses for £20 or three for just £25. This pricing strategy has attracted a steady stream of patrons eager to experience Michelin-calibre cooking without the usual financial strain. The menu itself changes weekly, focusing on seasonal British produce and giving familiar favourites a contemporary twist.
Bold Flavours and an Open Kitchen
The culinary direction is led by Head Chef Sarah Hayward, who won the Michelin Young Chef Award in 2023. Hayward, who has worked with Kerridge since her days at his flagship The Hand & Flowers, is acclaimed for her use of bold flavours and quality ingredients.
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 explained. The open kitchen allows the team to see the direct impact of their work, a feature Hayward cherishes. "The best feeling is when you’ve put a lot of love into it all, then you serve someone a plate of food and their eyes just light up," she said.
Diners can expect a range of inventive dishes, which might include:
- Starters like heritage tomato and burrata salad.
- Mains such as smoked haddock scotch egg, deep-fried cod with pease pudding, or braised lamb shoulder.
- A selection of small plates for sharing, accompanied by a curated drinks list of local ales and premium wines.
Controversy and Change for Kerridge's Empire
Despite the acclaim for The Coach's affordable model, Tom Kerridge has faced criticism for premium-priced offerings elsewhere in his portfolio. In January of last year, his £59 'Beast Club' meat board, served at his Chelsea and Marlow restaurants, sparked a backlash online, with some commentators labelling it a "rip-off" and questioning its value.
Further change came in August last year when Harrods ended its partnerships with several celebrity chefs, including Kerridge and Gordon Ramsay. The luxury London department store shifted its focus to in-house produce, meaning Kerridge's famously controversial £37 fish and chips are no longer sold there.
The story of The Coach demonstrates that prestige and accessibility can coexist in the UK's dining scene. By offering Michelin-starred cuisine in a relaxed pub environment at a remarkable price point, Tom Kerridge and Sarah Hayward have created a destination that redefines what fine dining can be.
