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The Artichoke: Michelin-Starred Modern British Dining in Historic Amersham

Michelin-starred modern British cuisine in a historic 16th-century setting, blending seasonal local produce with creative flair and impeccable service.

4.6

Nestled in a charming 16th-century red-brick building in Old Amersham’s Market Square, The Artichoke offers refined modern British cuisine with a strong emphasis on seasonal, locally sourced ingredients. This Michelin-starred restaurant is renowned for its creative dishes, impeccable service, and elegant yet relaxed atmosphere, making it a standout fine dining destination in Buckinghamshire.

A brief summary to The Artichoke

  • 9 Market Square, Amersham, HP7 0DF, GB
  • +441494726611
  • Visit website
  • Duration: 1.5 to 3 hours
  • Exclusive
  • Environment icon Indoor
  • Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
  • Wednesday 6 pm-11 pm
  • Thursday 12 pm-3 pm
  • Friday 12 pm-3 pm
  • Saturday 12 pm-3 pm

Local tips

  • Book well in advance, especially for weekend dinners, as The Artichoke is highly sought after.
  • Try the tasting menu to experience a variety of seasonal dishes showcasing local ingredients.
  • Pair your meal with wines recommended by the sommelier for a perfectly balanced dining experience.
  • Consider dining in the Kitchen Dining Room for a unique view of the chefs at work.
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The Artichoke location weather suitability

  • Weather icon Any Weather
  • Weather icon Mild Temperatures

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A Historic Setting with Contemporary Elegance

The Artichoke occupies a beautifully preserved 16th-century red-brick house in the heart of Old Amersham’s Market Square. The interior artfully blends historic features such as an inglenook fireplace with a sleek contemporary country design. Muted, soothing colors and tasteful furnishings create a warm, inviting ambiance that balances comfort with sophistication. The recent refurbishment introduced an artichoke-inspired color palette, enhancing the restaurant’s stylish yet cozy character.

Chef-Patron Laurie Gear’s Culinary Vision

Under the guidance of chef-patron Laurie Gear, The Artichoke has earned a Michelin star for its confident, clever, and quietly creative approach to modern British cuisine. The menu evolves seasonally, showcasing the best of local produce from the surrounding Chilterns, including free-range meats, fresh vegetables, and foraged herbs and flowers. Dishes are known for their precise balance of flavors and textures, such as lamb sweetbreads with garden peas and morel mushrooms or skrei cod with Jersey Royals and mussels.

Exceptional Dining Experience and Service

The Artichoke is celebrated for its impeccable service, delivered by a knowledgeable and attentive team that ensures a thoughtfully paced meal. The front of house is managed by Laurie Gear’s wife, Jacqueline, who maintains a welcoming and professional atmosphere. Guests often begin with signature treats like warm Chiltern Black ale bread and amuse-bouches that hint at the culinary creativity to come. The restaurant also boasts an impressive wine list curated by an expert sommelier, featuring selections from France, Italy, and beyond, perfectly paired with the menu.

Distinctive Dining Spaces and Atmosphere

The restaurant offers several dining areas, including the open Kitchen Dining Room where guests can observe the culinary team at work, the Garden Dining Room opening onto a bespoke herb wall, and an elegant Wine Room upstairs ideal for private or business dining. The overall atmosphere is relaxed yet refined, making it suitable for special occasions or a sophisticated neighborhood meal.

A Commitment to Local and Seasonal Excellence

Seasonality and locality are at the heart of The Artichoke’s philosophy. The menu changes frequently to reflect the freshest ingredients available, with an emphasis on British produce. This commitment extends to desserts, which are crafted with the same care and creativity as the mains, offering delights such as passion-fruit soufflé and blackcurrant crumble soufflé.

Recognition and Reputation

The Artichoke has garnered numerous accolades and critical praise over more than two decades, including consistent Michelin Guide recognition and glowing reviews from top food critics. Its reputation as a top-tier fine dining restaurant in Buckinghamshire has made it a destination for food lovers seeking an exceptional culinary experience in a historic yet contemporary setting.

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