Looking for somewhere to host a special occasion in Old Amersham? Well, you are in luck because much-loved neighbourhood restaurant Artichoke is just the place. Specialising in modern European dining, Artichoke opened its doors back in 2002 under the helm of Chef Patron Laurie Gear and his wife Jacqueline and over the last two decades has racked up accolades and impressive reviews, bolstered by a Michelin Star which was awarded in 2019.
Artichoke is all about hyper-seasonal dishes which use the best ingredients from the local area with a creative flair. The restaurant offers set lunch and dinner menus, alongside a collection of tasting menus, whilst menus are subject to change depending on ingredients you can check out the website for a flavour of what to expect. Personally, we love the sound of dishes like Oxfordshire wild rabbit raviolo with rabbit tea, young carrots and pickled girolles, followed by saddle of English rose veal, globe artichoke barigoule and confit potato press.
Of course, while food is of the utmost importance, for a special occasion the setting also needs to hit the right note. Well, there will be no complaints here as Artichoke sits within a 16th-century, Grade II Listed building with stunning original features. To complement its historic frame, the team collaborated with designer Fiona Johnston Parke from the award-winning Emily Todd Hunter studio on an interior scheme that feels calming and neutral, inspired by Laurie's time in Scandinavia. Featuring a soft colour palette of greys and walnut, it is a stylish space that nods to both to the present and the past.
As for the private dining space, on the first floor you will find a self-contained dining room with a flexible layout which can be re-worked for anything from birthday parties to corporate meetings. Simply chat with the team about your needs and they will help to create the event of your dreams.