Established in 2019, Fête originated from a 43 year old Renault Estafette coffee van. With extensive experience in the hospitality industry, Chef Tobias Godfrey and his partner Laura Day embarked on their entrepreneurial journey. And after a bunch of Covid related hurdles, pop ups and trialling new things, in March 2022, Fête Grays Yard was opened, transforming the former Laura Ashley site into a thriving restaurant and events space in Grays Brewery Yard, Chelmsford.
Fête Grays Yard has quickly become one of Chelmsford's most cherished independent dining establishments, employing a busy team of 35. The menu features innovative brunch options, including the indulgent beef short rib Benedict with 12 hour pulled short rib, poached eggs, cheddar waffle, and miso hollandaise. Vegan offerings abound with the full breakfast, a delicious combination of confit garlic rainbow chard, spiced roast squash, toasted pine nuts, king brown mushroom, green hummus, smoked beans, roasted plum tomato, and sourdough.
Sweet brunch delights include the tempting Nutella French toast coated in cornflakes, adorned with creme fraiche and honeycomb. A comforting oat milk chai spiced porridge steals the spotlight, featuring coconut, burnt apple, nut granola, and chocolate. Be sure to enjoy the plate of hash browns on the side, topped with finely grated Manchego cheese - divine.
From Thursday until Saturday, between 5.30 and 9pm, the bar is open with a different vibe, and small plates are served. Choose from Islington saucisson sec with cornichons and toast, padron peppers topped with Maldon sea salt, and house focaccia with whipped Marmite butter to share amongst the table. Small plates include the aubergine with aged mutton, spices, sheep's milk labneh, sumac and pomegranate, paired with Thai fried chicken along with nahm jim, fish sauce and caramel.