Award-winning chef expands Rothwell’s Bakehouse complex with 'flavour-first' menu for bistro and special dining events

Based in the old bakehouse complex, rosette-awarded chef Martin Allen will be at the helm as a series of ‘new food concepts’, menus and experiences are brought to the site.

Martin has developed a menu for the Bakehouse Bistro, including a limited, monthly dining concept with an Early May Chef’s Menu evening – a five-course tasting experience celebrating seasonal British produce.

He said: “For me, it’s about doing things properly - good ingredients, well cooked, no fuss.

“The bistro allows us to create something a bit more special, while still keeping it relaxed and accessible. It’s food people recognise, just done really well.”

The menu showcases Martin’s ‘flavour-first’ approach and ‘attention to detail’, with dishes including lamb loin chop with pulled shoulder croquette, chicken ballotine with tarragon mousseline and a fresh asparagus and parsley risotto, alongside desserts such as rhubarb and ginger frangipane tart and champagne-compressed strawberry Eton Mess.

Martin, who leads the kitchen across the entire complex, has brought his 20 years of experience creating consistency, quality and a clear vision to everything from morning coffee service through to evening dining.

Significant investment has been made to restore and reimagine the bakehouse complex, located in Bakehouse Mews off Market Hill, Rothwell, into a space that is a multi-venue destination.

In the daytime the Coffee Tavern serves beverages, breakfasts and lunches. In the evening, Vintage Vault offers cocktails, wine, live music and regular events.

Co-owner Guy said: “Martin coming in has taken everything up another level.

"We’ve always said we want this to be more than just one thing.

"It’s about creating a place people can come to throughout the week - coffee in the morning, lunch with family, drinks with friends and something special in the evening.”

There are already plans to extend the venue’s evening offer later this spring, with the Bistro to open every weekend towards the end of May.

Next on the horizon is a full redevelopment of the courtyard, which is set to become a standout feature for summer - a Mediterranean-inspired outdoor space designed for long evenings, drinks and social gatherings.

Guy said: “We’re building this step by step. Everything we do is about creating something that lasts - somewhere people feel comfortable, looked after and glad they chose to come.”

The Early May Chef’s Menu at Bakehouse Bistro will be available for two nights only - on Friday, May 8 and Saturday, May 9.

For reservations, event listings and updates, follow the Old Bakehouse Complex on social media or enquire directly.