TASTE NEWBURY

&HORSES COURSES

Martin Wales tells us about the di erent facets to Taste Newbury, Newbury Racecourse’s food and drink brand

Q How important is the Taste Newbury brand to the overall operation at Newbury Racecourse?

A Taste Newbury was born out of a recent partnership with our new catering company Levy, which we launched in 2021. Food and drink is an integral element to our raceday experience for all our customers. The menus, suppliers and products on o er to all our guests stem from our Taste Newbury vision to create memorable experiences. Whether this is our fish and chips, sourced from Brixham Fish Market, or our sausage rolls from Orchard Farm, we take pride in what we serve.

Q What kind of experience can we expect at The Hennessy?

A The Hennessy restaurant is Newbury Racecourse’s fine dining restaurant where the service and experience exceed expectations for those joining us on racedays. The menu is cooked with fresh ingredients from local seasonal suppliers as well as o ering panoramic views of the course and finish line.

Q How does head chef Darren Fairminer approach the menu?

Darren, in partnership with the executive chef from Levy, would create and base their dishes around what is going to deliver the best customer experience as well as using seasonal produce.

Q What are the stand out dishes?

A The Slow Braised Beef Cheek really is a fan favourite as a leading main dish, as well as the Mille Feuille of Roasted Aubergine to start. We are moving towards more plant-based menus that reduces our carbon emissions, and Levy is committed to a sustainable journey, which will reduce our carbon footprint with an aim to be net zero by 2027.

Q How di erent is The Racegoers Restaurant experience?

With stunning panoramic views overlooking the final furlong, located in the Dubai Duty Free Grandstand, this restaurant is ideal for celebrations, informal workdays out or family occasions. Packages include a table for the day, a three-course lunch from a table d’hote menu, and a Tipster Talk before racing from our expert, talking diners through the runners of the day.

Q What’s on o er in a private hospitality suite?

A The private hospitality suites are perfect for friends, family and colleagues as the ultimate way to experience Newbury Racecourse. Coupled with exceptional views of the racing from the iconic Berkshire Stand, the unique food and drink packages o er a raceday experience to suit all budgets and requirements. There are three di erent menus ranging from canapes, a threecourse sit down to a more informal bu et style, allowing all to select their preference.

Q Outside, you also o er concession stands – such as what?

A A standout is Carbonis, who o er a wonderful roastery chicken with frites to a mouth-watering steak sandwich as well as vegetarian options. New co ee units across site o er barrister style co ee and a selection of sweet pastries. The units would be bespoke to each event and some fan favourites include Cocktail Box o ering mixologists that create fresh cocktails in front of your eyes, to our more traditional fish and chips located permanently at Newbury.

Q What’s new for 2022?

A We have some exciting changes happening in 2022 such as the permeant instalment of two Costa Co ee outlets in our two main Grandstands, as well as our new Parade Ring lawn o ering. Following the major redevelopment of our outdoor areas across the site, our attention in now focused on upgrading some of our indoor spaces and bars. The newly refurbished Long Room Paddock Bar and Long Room Racetrack Bar is currently under refurbishment to feature a dedicated Gin Bar as well as a premium upgrade space with ample lounge and poseur seating. This will be completed in 2022 for the start of the flat season on 16 & 17 April across Easter Weekend, which we are excited to launch.

For more information visit newburyracecourse.co.uk

FINE FOOD WITH A VIEW