Charlie Ratcliffe (Master Chef of Great Britain) creates exceptional catered breaks for our guests. Most noteworthy is his bespoke menu planning, a professional approach and a passionate enthusiasm for good food. And, he is a lovely guy to have around and chat to about food, cycling (another passion), or anything really.
The restaurant and bespoke menus come to you
Charlie takes care of everything whilst you leisurely change upstairs and enjoy an aperitif in the drawing room. Then you sit down, refreshed and relaxed, to a sumptuous meal with your family and friends. Together with Tony, he will provide everything for the table, serve drinks and clear away afterwards.
Choose from 3 – 5 courses – each skillfully created around your personal preferences and dietary requirements. Alternatively, if celebrating at lunchtime, you might like to consider a buffet or a BBQ. You can either dine in the spacious contemporary open-plan kitchen, or in the more classically elegant Georgian dining room.
Naturally, Charlie buys local and seasonal produce and sources his fish from Cornwall.
Flavours galore
He describes his style of cooking as ‘modern European with French and Italian influences’. Most of all he believes it’s about quality ingredients and creating fabulous and unique flavours.
“ I won’t just use the one cut from the animal. The tougher cuts that have done more work often have more flavour. The more the muscle works, the more the flavour builds up.”
This ‘nose to tail’ approach, for example, could have a piece of fillet steak served with sweetbread and a braised oxtail croquette. Of course, this is all in accordance with each guest’s personal preferences.
Most noteworthy are his home-made ice creams and sorbets, as the flavour combinations are amazing. Another favourite is carmelised pear tart tartin with pickled walnut and blue cheese ice cream! Charlie is always looking to do something different. At Christmas he stunned us with this fluorescent sorbet – which glowed when we dimmed the lights!!
Catered weekend breaks
In addition to a one off celebratory meal, Charlie also offers our guests a complete weekend of culinary experience and convenience. Make the most of your stay and enjoy some amazing food whilst relaxing with your family and friends.
Charlie can cook on the Friday and Saturday night. Perhaps a two course meal on Friday with a more lengthy bespoke menu on Saturday. Or the other way round, as you prefer. While there, he will deliver a nutritious breakfast for the following day. Typically breakfast might include swiss cheese and smoked ham platter, pastries and brioche, fruit compot, yoghurts, fruit salad and mueslis. So you are ready to explore the beautiful scenery and many attractions that the Peak District has in store.
Further information
For more information on these packages and prices click here or contact Charlie at The Private Chef Company.
If you would like find out more about Darley House please see our website www.darleyhouse.com
