Auberge du Lac at Brocket Hall is proud to announce its continued evolution in the culinary world with the celebrated Chef John Barber at its helm
Reopened in May 2023 after a three-year hiatus, the restaurant is experiencing a renaissance, blending tradition with innovative culinary concepts.
The restaurant is situated at Brocket Hall, one of England’s finest stately homes, alongside Grade 1 listed accommodation at Melbourne Lodge and The Melbourne Club; comprising of two championship golf courses.
Chef John Barber
Chef John Barber’s impressive career is highlighted by international experiences and a deep-seated passion for cooking, inspired by his mother’s home cooking. His culinary journey, beginning at UCB College of Food, has taken him through prestigious kitchens from the Belfry Hotel to the Mandarin Oriental in Knightsbridge, extending to global experiences in Thailand and Paris. Notably, he has held positions at Bar Boulud in London and also the D&D Group, opening 14 Hills in London.
Chef Barber’s arrival at Brocket Hall estate in 2022 marked the beginning of a new chapter for Auberge du Lac, characterized by his unique vision and international expertise.
Lucy Hawkins and the Transformative Kitchen Garden
A unique aspect of Auberge du Lac’s culinary journey is its dedicated kitchen garden, meticulously managed by Lucy Hawkins. This garden is not just a source of fresh, organic produce for the restaurant but also a testament to sustainable culinary practices. Employing sustainable no-dig methods, she has transformed an acre of land into a fertile source of fresh produce for Auberge du Lac, enhancing local biodiversity and embodying the essence of soil-to-plate dining. The dishes created by Chef Barber make the best use of these seasonal crops, grown just meters away from where they are served.
Visitors can explore this green haven through the Garden Tour & Lunch events, with dates pending for both spring/summer and autumn seasons, offering a deeper connection with the food they enjoy at the restaurant.
The Auberge Experience
In addition to the exceptional dining, Auberge du Lac offers an incredible ‘Auberge Experience’ package for £420 per couple. This includes half a bottle of Champagne in room upon arrival with chocolates, a seven course tasting menu at Auberge du Lac, overnight stay in the Melbourne Lodge plus Full English Breakfast served at the Melbourne Club.
With stunning views of the Hall, Broadwater Lake and The Melbourne Club golf course, the 16 luxury ensuite bedrooms in Melbourne Lodge, each named after one of the great racehorses of the day, are the perfect place to stay after enjoying a sumptuous dinner. Available Thursday to Saturday Evening Only.
Just 22 Miles from Central London
Auberge du Lac is easily accessible, taking under 30 minutes to get to from London. Make the trip from St Pancras International or Finsbury Park to Welwyn Garden City, then a short 10-minute drive.
Embracing Chef John Barber’s culinary artistry, the sustainable innovation of Lucy Hawkins’ kitchen garden, and the unique offerings of the Melbourne Lodge and Golf packages, Auberge du Lac at Brocket Hall stands as a beacon of gastronomic excellence and bespoke luxury, inviting guests to experience the epitome of soil-to-plate dining and leisure in a setting steeped in history and natural beauty.
Brocket Park, Marford Rd, Hatfield, Welwyn Garden City AL8 7XG
Auberge du Lac Menus
À la carte: Available Thursday to Saturday, Lunch and dinner
Tasting menu £85, with wine flight £135: Available Thursday- Saturday evenings from 6pm (Not available 8th – 17th Feb 2024, please see Valentines Tasting menu).
Set Lunch & Early Evening Menu £39: Available Thursday and Friday lunches from 12pm, evening between 6pm – 6.45pm
Sunday Lunch Menu, 3 courses £65: Available 12pm – 3pm
Children’s Menu, 3 courses £25 (under 12’s)
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