Dear Friends and Guests,
This is a hugely exciting time for all of us at ABode. In April, we opened the doors to our most exciting and ambitious property yet: ABode Chester. This marked the culmination of more than three years work as the circular HQ building, located opposite the famous Chester racecourse, was newly constructed on the site of the former Cheshire Constabulary. The building is fabulous architecturally, with its 360-degree outlook taking advantage of its position overlooking city and country alike, with stunning views across the racecourse to the rolling Welsh hills beyond.
ABode Chester may be strikingly modern yet it combines all the best, traditional British values that lie at the heart of the ABode group. Michael Caines dining, as in all ABodes, is at the heart of ABode Chester, with a truly fabulous 5th floor Champagne Bar and Michael Caines Restaurant as the centrepiece of the hotel. Here modern contemporary design complements perfectly my own style of modern European cuisine based on classic techniques honed at Gidleigh Park, and utilising the finest produce from the North West. Stuart Collins, our ABode Chester Executive Chef, who worked with me at Gidleigh Park, and then with Gordon Ramsay first in London and then in New York, oversees the kitchen and I have great faith in him to deliver truly exciting, brilliant and consistent cuisine.
Meanwhile, downstairs, the light, casual MC Café Bar & Grill offers informal dining throughout the day and evening, with outdoor tables located on the central HQ piazza, while ABarMC is a late night lounge bar serving cutting edge cocktails, wine, champagne and more.
Our ABode group is growing - and growing up - fast. It is only seven years ago that I first met Andrew Brownsword, who came to lunch one day in my restaurant in Exeter. We immediately hit it off and the rest, as they say, is history. There are now five ABodes, created in just six years! I'm hugely proud of all that we have achieved, not just at Chester, but in Exeter, Manchester, Canterbury and Glasgow.
But as a chef, I also know too well that we are only ever as good as our last meal. So please be assured, none of us are resting on our laurels. On the contrary, we are seeking always to find ways serve you better and to earn and keep your custom through delivering food, drink and bedrooms of the highest quality. Your continued satisfaction and enjoyment of all that we do is our constant goal.
I hope to see you in an ABode very soon.
Michael Caines MBE
