Àclèaf in Devon has been awarded their first MICHELIN Star, continuing the reign as Plymouth’s highest rated and only MICHELIN starred restaurant in Plymouth. Already awarded 4 AA Rosettes, the intimate restaurant is putting the Southwest firmly on the map for a considered foodie destination outside of London.
The globally renowned MICHELIN Guide strives ‘to make driving, tourism and the search for unforgettable experiences available to all*’ as food is judged by a unique rating system, based on five criteria.
Àclèaf showcases inventive British fare using the finest locally sourced ingredients. Promising guests an unforgettable gastronomic journey, with surprises along the way, Paton and team offer a four-course menu, with visually striking dishes that celebrate the highest-quality, seasonal ingredients, sourced locally where possible. The restaurant also offers a paired wine flight perfectly matched to each individual dish, picked from their impressive wine cellar which is home to over 1500 wines.
On the recognition Scott Paton quotes ‘In my 20 years of cooking it’s always been a goal to achieve a MICHELIN Star since those early days listening to chef’s stories about the pinnacle dining experiences, but, since joining Boringdon Hall and receiving the faith and trust from the Directors to launch Àclèaf, that goal became so much closer and in turn we pushed so much harder, not for the star, but for excellence. I’ve never worked with a team who kick themselves more or who ask so many questions about our why, so for that I’m so delighted for the team to get their recognition for that hard work.’
Scott Paton joined Boringdon Hall Hotel & Spa in 2016 as Head Chef following stints at The Horn of Plenty and The Jack in the Green. As Head Chef at The Horn of Plenty, time experimenting allowed Paton to realise and develop his own cooking style which, at Àclèaf, he describes as “truth with elegance”. His dishes are simple, yet sophisticated, allowing quality ingredients to shine through.
Paton launched his first cookbook at the end of 2022 aptly named Àclèaf. An emulation of the restaurant itself, the book is a celebration of seasonality, quality produce and adorned with an essence of culinary creativity sprinkled throughout. After years of planning, Àclèaf the book unfolds a story of how Àclèaf began, how dishes evolved and how partnerships formed. Alongside recipes from Scott and his team, Àclèaf speaks a modern narrative, encompassing the evolution of a dining space created to bring people together over simple, honest food.
The MICHELIN starred menu includes CHICKEN LIVER, px, brioche, CRAB, curry, mango, HIGHLAND WAGYU, garlic, thyme and CHOCOLATE, miso, sesame and is open for a limited amount of non-resident per evening. To secure a seat at Àclèaf, diners should book a dining inclusive package at Boringdon Hall.
Four-courses £120, additional cheese course £16.
In addition, Boringdon Hall have launched a new break for overnight guests. The ‘Àclèaf Dining Experience Break’ includes: One night stay at the five-star Boringdon Hall Hotel, Àclèaf four-course menu including additional Caviar and Cheese Course, Àclèaf Wine Flight to complement each dish, Copy of Àclèaf Book, Breakfast in Mayflower Brasserie, Complimentary membership to award-winning, adult-only, Gaia Spa and 10% off GAIA Spa treatments. From £710 per couple.
Reservations for Àclèaf and Boringdon Hall can be made by calling 01752 344455 or visit Àclèaf.com or boringdonhall.co.uk for further information.