The fine dining restaurant in Staffordshire run by chef Thom Bateman has achieved Michelin Guide status – marking another memorable chapter in his remarkable career journey.
The Flintlock, situated alongside the Caldon Canal in Cheddleton, opened during the pandemic as Thom’s first solo venture.
It made an immediate impact, gaining 2 AA Rosettes in its first year, and the recommendation in the Guide reflects the excellence of its evening tasting menus and set menu option for lunch.
The world-famous directory describes The Flintlock as a “spacious, elegant restaurant packed with charm” and gives a special mention to its hake with fermented lettuce.
“To be listed in the Michelin Guide means the world to us as a group, we have worked tirelessly to achieve a standard worthy of accolades such as this,” said Thom, who appeared on BBC2’s Great British Menu to much acclaim last year.
His creation featuring celeriac with black garlic, apple and date ketchup was praised by judge Paul Ainsworth as a “genius” dish.
Staffordshire-born Thom has followed what he himself describes as an “unconventional” route to becoming a restaurateur.
He began his chef’s career in the same building as The Flintlock in 2003 at the age of 17, alongside training at college where he gained a grounding in classical techniques.
In 2009 he left the industry through challenges with mental health and a desire to go and learn more about the world as well as his own self.
Ten years later he set up a food blog page known as bboxfood, reigniting his passion for cooking and working with many internationally recognised brands.
His food caught so much attention that he was awarded TSC 2021 Social Media Influencer of the Year.
Then he decided to head back to his roots – and it’s at The Flintlock, with its emphasis on local and seasonal ingredients, that he now creates all his recipes and videos.
Thom, whose title at the Flintlock is chef owner, said: “Our aim is to consistently produce the best possible experience for every single guest that walks through our door.
“I am motivated by determination, an adoration for what I do and the never-ending passion to provide every guest with an amazing experience – you cannot succeed in hospitality without being inspired by your guest first in my opinion.”
Firm favourites at The Flintlock are Staffordshire cheese and salt baked beetroot tart with black garlic and crispy brassicas, and Cornish hake with charcoal butter sauce.
- The Flintlock is one of seven Staffordshire restaurants featured in the Michelin Guide. The others are Upstairs by Tom Shepherd in Lichfield (One Star), Larder in Lichfield (Recommended), Duncombe Arms in Ellastone (Bib Gourmand), The Boat in Lichfield (Recommended), Lunar in Barlaston, Stoke-on-Trent (Recommended) and Little Seeds in Stone (Recommended).
