Location: Home Counties, London, South West

The Clock House, Ripley

Changing the name of her award-winning restaurant, rebuilding and motivating a depleted brigade and restoring a business to its former glory after the departure of your business partner are pretty mammoth tasks.  But they are ones which owner Serina Drake took on at The Clock House – and in so doing has rapidly made her mark on the Surrey food scene.  Formerly known as Drake’s, this elegant restaurant held a Michelin star and three AA Rosettes for many years. Within weeks of Serina appointing a new head chef, the AA reinstated the three Rosettes and within a year of changing the name, Michelin had reinstated its star.

This imposing Georgian building is set back from the High Street in this pretty village.  The décor is a clever mix of contemporary and classic and the stylish wood panelled bar is a cosy place for cocktails.  There is a gorgeous walled garden with terrace for drinks, weather permitting.

Fred Clapperton

Head chef Fred Clapperton, aged 29, joined the brigade at what was then Drake’s, in 2012 as demi chef de partie on pastry.  Swiftly making his mark, he moved through all the different sections and positions, to be appointed head chef in September 2016.

After spending much of his childhood in Nottinghamshire, Fred worked at a number of different establishments.  These included Bibury Court in the Cotswolds, at the time under the same ownership as Shipton Mill, which gave him the opportunity to learn about different breads, a skill which is much in evidence at The Clock House today.

His passion for creativity and design, alongside his attention to detail and keenness always to use the finest quality, seasonal produce sourced within the UK, has garnered rave reviews.  His food, served by a friendly and professional front of house team led by restaurant manager Joseph, has enabled The Clock House to retain existing customers and attract a new clientele.

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