It's been a great week for Surrey chef and restaurateur Steve Drake, who just a few days after scooping the AA Restaurant of the Year Award, has seen his Dorking-based fine dining venue Sorrel, receive that all-important Michelin star. Yes, that's right - a Michelin star. But Steve Drake is no stranger to success, the British chef has been a Michelin star title holder now for the best part of 15 years. And this star proves that he truly is Surrey's most decorated chef.
It was only last year that one of our food and drink editors, Catherine Whyte sat down with Steve to discuss the opening of the restaurant. The talented chef spoke to us about his life, how he got into the business and his plans for the future, you can access the full interview here. And despite being only open for twelve months it's been popular with critics and diners alike.
Anyone, who knows anything about the culinary world knows that Steve is one to watch and his food to definitely be tasted. Educated in one of the top culinary schools in the world means he has an impressive resume and has even worked with some of the best; Marc Veyrat and the Roux brothers, to mention a few.
For us, with his track record, it comes as no surprise that Drake has made this restaurant a success. Especially as one of the world's most famous chefs, Nico Ladenis predicted that he would be one of the "UK's best chefs." And here he is, living the prophecy through his hard work and determination.
“I want the customers to know that I’m working hard to give them something different, that I haven’t copied it from anywhere else,” he says. “I’d also like people to be intrigued when they get here and not to have any expectation of what’s going to be placed in front of them. There are no pictures of pretty dishes on the website, as I don’t want to give anything away. I aim to tick the box for people who want to come out and try something exciting that they are going to love and remember." - Steve Drake
The South Street eaterie prides itself on serving simple yet inspiring dishes in a relaxed and welcoming setting. And the food? It's out of this world. So, if you're a bit of a foodie, then you need to book a table ASAP!
Check out some of Steve's creations below:
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Grey mullet with pearl barley pudding, black garlic and spring onion by Steve Drake
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Tamarind duck with fried cauliflower by Steve Drake
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Grilled leek, aubergine and mushrooms by Steve Drake
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Chocolate with coriander and poached pear by Steve Drake
Sorrel, 77 South Street, Dorking is now open (tel: 01306 889414). For more information and to book a table, visit: sorrelrestaurant.co.ukor stevedrakefood.com
