The Chester Grosvenor hotel opened its new restaurant to the public this week for the first time since its £250,000 refurbishment.

The Arkle restaurant has taken over from the five-star hotel's previous offering 'Simon Radley at the Chester Grosvenor' and enjoyed a successful first week of trading.

New Executive Chef, Elliot Hill, a born and bred Cestrian and former Head Chef at Panoramic 34 in Liverpool and Oddfellows Chester, brings a menu enthused with style and informed by his extensive experience.

The focal point of the launch offering is its tasting menu, which is also available as vegetarian and plant-based options, and includes dishes such as chicken en gelée, blanc of wild turbot, fillet of beef and Tatws Pum Munud – Elliot’s take on a traditional Welsh dish, and inspired by his father.

Alongside Elliot, the kitchen team is enthused with an array of Michelin-standard experience, including Head Chef Raymond Booker, who’s been in place at The Chester Grosvenor for more than 17 years, Head Pastry Chef Declan O’Driscoll and Senior Sous Chef Sam Griffiths. The front of house team includes Restaurant Manager Aga Szopa and Head Sommelier Boris Filip.

Richard Grove, General Manager of the Chester Grosvenor, said: "We’ve had a fantastic opening week for the Arkle, with the reception and feedback from guests being extremely positive.

"I am so proud of the team who have done a marvellous job – both in getting us ready for opening and then successfully delivering on that vision.

"It’s been tremendous to see and I’m grateful for their hard work as well as the guests who’ve been in to dine with us, all of whom have been wonderfully supportive of what we’re looking to achieve."

Due to the closure and refurbishment of the restaurant, The Arkle has missed out on featuring in this year's Michelin Star Guide. However, Mr Grove said: "With the restaurant closed for a prolonged period, it simply wasn’t possible for the Michelin inspectors to assess our offering.

"With the Arkle now fully open and boasting a team that’s been immersed in our 30-year history of Michelin-standard fare, we are excited to be delivering the same exceptional standards of service and food for which we have always been known."