In the heart of North Yorkshire lies Oldstead, a small village steeped in history and surrounded by the natural beauty of the English countryside. It is here that the Banks family has cultivated something truly special—Made in Oldstead, a dining experience that transcends the traditional restaurant setting and brings the essence of Michelin-starred cuisine directly to your home. Born from the vision of chef Tommy Banks, Made in Oldstead is a celebration of local ingredients, seasonal produce, and a deep-rooted connection to the land.
The Origins of Made in Oldstead
Tommy Banks, the culinary genius behind Made in Oldstead, is no stranger to the spotlight. As the head chef of the critically acclaimed The Black Swan at Oldstead, Tommy became the youngest Michelin-starred chef in the UK at the age of 24. His passion for using locally sourced ingredients and his innovative approach to British cuisine have earned him numerous accolades and a loyal following.
The concept for Made in Oldstead emerged during the challenging times of the COVID-19 pandemic. With restaurants closed and people confined to their homes, Tommy saw an opportunity to bring the fine dining experience to customers who were missing the joy of eating out. Thus, Made in Oldstead was born—a premium at-home dining service that offers gourmet meals crafted with the same care, creativity, and quality that one would expect in a Michelin-starred restaurant.
A Taste of the Yorkshire Countryside
One of the defining features of Made in Oldstead is its unwavering commitment to using the finest local and seasonal ingredients. The Banks family has a long-standing tradition of farming, and their connection to the land is evident in every dish. Many of the ingredients used in Made in Oldstead’s meals are grown on the family’s farm or sourced from trusted local suppliers, ensuring that each meal reflects the unique flavors of the Yorkshire countryside.
The menus at Made in Oldstead are carefully curated to showcase the best of each season. Whether it’s the tender lamb of spring, the vibrant vegetables of summer, the rich game of autumn, or the comforting root vegetables of winter, every dish is a celebration of what the land has to offer at that particular time of year. This seasonal approach not only ensures the freshest ingredients but also supports sustainable farming practices.
The At-Home Dining Experience
What sets Made in Oldstead apart is its dedication to providing a restaurant-quality dining experience in the comfort of your own home. Each meal is meticulously prepared by Tommy Banks and his team, then packaged with care to ensure that it arrives fresh and ready to be enjoyed. The meals are designed to be easily reheated and assembled, allowing customers to enjoy gourmet dishes without the stress of cooking.
The menus change regularly, offering a diverse range of options to suit different tastes and dietary preferences. From indulgent multi-course feasts to lighter, seasonal dishes, Made in Oldstead has something for every occasion. Whether you’re celebrating a special event or simply want to treat yourself to a night of fine dining, these meals provide an experience that is both convenient and luxurious.
One of the standout features of Made in Oldstead’s service is the attention to detail. Along with the food, customers receive detailed instructions on how to plate and present each dish, ensuring that the final product looks as impressive as it tastes. This thoughtful approach allows customers to recreate the restaurant experience at home, complete with the aesthetics and presentation that make dining out so special.
Signature Dishes: A Journey Through Flavors
Made in Oldstead’s menu is a journey through flavors, with each dish telling a story of its origins and ingredients. While the menu is constantly evolving to reflect the seasons, there are a few signature dishes that have become fan favorites.
One such dish is the Oldstead Lamb, a testament to the quality of local produce. The lamb is sourced from nearby farms and cooked to perfection, often paired with foraged herbs and vegetables from the Banks’ family farm. The dish is a perfect example of Tommy Banks’ ability to elevate traditional British ingredients into something truly extraordinary.
Another highlight is the Salt-Aged Duck, a dish that showcases the complex flavors that can be achieved through careful preparation and aging. The duck is served with seasonal accompaniments that complement its rich, savory taste, creating a harmonious balance of flavors.
For those with a sweet tooth, the Rhubarb & Custard dessert is a must-try. This classic British combination is given a modern twist, with the sharpness of the rhubarb perfectly offset by the creamy, velvety custard. It’s a dish that brings comfort and nostalgia, all while demonstrating the skill and creativity of the Made in Oldstead team.
Sustainability and Community Focus
Beyond the exceptional food, Made in Oldstead is also committed to sustainability and supporting the local community. By sourcing ingredients locally and focusing on seasonal produce, the company reduces its carbon footprint and helps to sustain the local economy. The emphasis on farming and foraging also reflects a deep respect for the environment and a desire to preserve the natural landscape for future generations.
In addition to its sustainable practices, Made in Oldstead actively engages with the local community through various initiatives. Whether it’s collaborating with local producers, supporting charitable causes, or offering educational opportunities, the Banks family and their team are dedicated to making a positive impact beyond the kitchen.
Bringing Michelin-Starred Dining Home
Made in Oldstead represents a new way of experiencing Michelin-starred dining. It’s a service that brings the creativity, skill, and flavor of a top-tier restaurant into the homes of those who appreciate the finer things in life. For anyone who has ever dreamed of enjoying a gourmet meal without the need to dress up or travel, Made in Oldstead offers the perfect solution.
The success of Made in Oldstead is a testament to the vision and passion of Tommy Banks and his team. By staying true to their roots and focusing on quality, sustainability, and innovation, they have created a dining experience that is both unique and accessible. Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or someone looking to try something new, Made in Oldstead is an experience that promises to delight and inspire.
Conclusion: A Culinary Experience Like No Other
In a world where convenience often comes at the cost of quality, Made in Oldstead stands out as a beacon of excellence. It’s more than just a meal delivery service—it’s a culinary journey that takes you to the heart of the Yorkshire countryside, where tradition and innovation come together to create something truly special. For those who appreciate the art of fine dining, Made in Oldstead offers an experience that is unmatched in its authenticity and attention to detail. Whether you’re enjoying a quiet night in or hosting a special occasion, Made in Oldstead ensures that every meal is a memorable one.
