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teve Drake made his name in the industry when he won the Roux Scholarship, a premier competition for chefs, which is considered the most prestigious and technically challenging competition in the UK. He learnt his trade under and alongside names such as Nico Ladenis and Marco Pierre White. After his win Drake gained his first Michelin star at Drake’s on the Pond in Abinger Hammer. After this he opened Drake’s in Ripley where he held a star for a further 14 years. In 2013, Steve purchased The Anchor Pub in Ripley, which he currently leaves in the more than capable hands of Head Chef Mike Wall-Palmer.
DRAKE’S PROGRESS Molly Enser meets Michelin Star chef Steve Drake
Drake then opened Sorrel at the end of 2017 and has since picked up a 2019 Michelin star, AA’s Restaurant of the Year 2019, and Surrey Life’s Restaurant of the Year 2019, and he currently resides at Sorrel. At Sorrel diners can treat themselves to a menu that changes with the seasons, with intriguing flavour combinations and exceptional service. Meanwhile, the Anchor pubs sits comfortably in the cosy village of Ripley and combines every Brit’s favourite things – good wine and good food. It is certainly a good spot for a classic Sunday lunch. Although it is not the first thing you might think of, Drake is certainly a good businessman and knows how to appeal to the county, with the use of local produce and services. He lives in Surrey and has certainly helped his local high street grow and prosper. Molly Enser caught up with Steve Drake at Sorrel in Dorking to talk about his work and to pick up some tips for cooking at home!
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SURREY BUSINESS
