Celebrity Chef Dinner Series to take place on a train

The Staff Canteen

Four Michelin-starred chefs are set to run a series of events aboard the Belmond British Pullman train.

The ‘Celebrity Chef Dinner Series’ launches on April 18 with four journeys planned, each with a new menu curated by chefs Andrew Wong, Atul Kocchar, Phil Howard and Theo Randall.

Each evening features a seasonal, five-course tasting menu, designed by a leading chef, who has played a key role in defining the nation’s gastronomic landscape. This will be complemented by a champagne reception and sommelier-selected fine wines.

Winding through picturesque British countryside vistas, the evening concludes with coffee, petits fours, and a personal visit from the featured chef, offering select insights into the artistry behind the menu.

Theo Randall is first up on April 18. A star on both the television and within Michelin-starred kitchens such as The River Cafe, Theo brings his passion for fresh, produce-driven Italian dishes, and a philosophy of authenticity and bold flavours to the British Pullman’s tables.

“Having had the pleasure of cooking on the Pullman train, I am looking forward to returning,” he said.

“Being surrounded by the history and amazing stories from the likes of Laurence Olivier and Oscar Wilde, the thought of cooking in the British Pullman kitchen and stepping back in time to take in the sheer craftsmanship of these handmade antique carriages is an incredible feeling. I will be cooking a unique menu which will feature the best springtime seasonal ingredients.”

Then, on May 22, Phil Howard takes over, showcasing his signature style of clean, vibrant, and beautifully balanced French dishes.

A two Michelin-starred chef for over 17 years, Phil said: “I thrive on the challenge of working with new ingredients, exploring new cultures, and catering to new diners. However, one place I have never cooked on is a train, so it is only fitting that my first experience had to be the British Pullman train!”

Belmond British Pullman, celebrity chef dinner series, andrew wong, theo randall, phil howard, atur kochhar

On June 13, the train transforms into a showcase of regional Chinese cuisine under the direction of Andrew Wong, who marries his cultural heritage with a modern flair from his British upbringing.

With two Michelin stars to his name at restaurant A. Wong, Andrew is renowned for his ability to reimagine Chinese cuisine using British ingredients, blending history and innovation in every dish.

"Our cuisine celebrates three fundamental elements: the craft, cuisine, and table culture of China's 3,000-year-old gastronomic heritage,” said Andrew.

“In Britain, we are fortunate to have a rich history of Chinese cuisine, and my cooking aims to honour this by using local British ingredients combined with the techniques and artisanal skills passed down from our forefathers to bridge the two.”

Celebrity Chef Dinner Series Aboard the British Pullman: A Michelin-Starred Experience

For the final departure on October 24, Atul Kochhar takes to the stage with his inspiring approach to new wave British Indian cuisine. As chef patron of the first Indian restaurant in the world to earn a Michelin star, Atul’s innovative style integrates regional Indian flavours with local British ingredients.

He said: “When I first arrived in the UK, I had preconceived notions about how Indian food should be cooked. However, the UK taught me that seasonality varies across the globe.

“I was creating British Indian cuisine. My menus on the British Pullman will reflect this. philosophy. Growing up in India, I have fond childhood memories of traveling long distances by train, and I hope to relive those experiences through my time on the British Pullman.”

Prices per person start at £565 per person including a round trip on the British Pullman, welcome champagne followed by a five-course menu crafted by one of four chefs and paired with fine wines, selected by our sommelier. For more information or to book, visit belmond.com

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The Staff Canteen

The Staff Canteen

Editor 13th January 2025

Celebrity Chef Dinner Series to take place on a train