Chefs Ryan and Liam Simpson-Trotman from award-winning Orwells Restaurant in Henley-on-Thames have delighted their local community by saving the disused village pub, The Plowden Arms, from the clutches of property developers and certain demolition.
Ryan and Liam, partners in work and life who cook side-by-side in their existing kitchen, will launch their first pub venture, bringing to it their trademark commitment to ingredients and strong focus on sustainability.
The pair, also well known for their appearances on TV shows James Martin’s Saturday Morning, Saturday Kitchen and Great British Menu, have established a very loyal following since launching Orwells in 2010.
They have won multiple accolades including no. 28 in The Good Food Guide UK Top 50 Restaurants, 4 AA Rosettes, Thames Valley Restaurant of the Year, Good Food Guide Editors Choice Restaurant of the Year as well as Good Food Guide Readers Choice.
The Plough at Shiplake, which dates back to 1774, will retain many of the much loved qualities of a British pub. However when it comes to provenance, the overall philosophy will mirror that of Orwells which has been celebrated for its sustainable and entirely seasonal menu with up to 75% of fruit and vegetables grown by Ryan and Liam themselves in their own small holding.
Both family and dog-friendly, The Plough at Shiplake will be an informal all day dining affair open seven days a week for everything from a quick drink and snack to a three course meal and is expected to be warmly welcomed by locals and destination diners alike.
