Harriet Mansell to open magical Garden Table this summer

Chef Harriet Mansell reveals plans for her latest woodland-inspired dining concept in Lyme Regis

Summer sunsets and alfresco suppers may seem like a lifetime away in gloomy January, but we’re already counting down the days to try this new outdoor dining destination in Lyme Regis.

This summer will see the launch of Garden Table, the latest dining concept from acclaimed chef Harriet Mansell. The outdoor restaurant will be hidden behind Lilac, Harriet’s existing restaurant and wine bar on Broad Street, and have an intimate woodland vibe created by garden designer Anna Wardrop, who has been responsible for the garden design of The River Café, Hermes Roof Terrace and Shoreditch House.

The magical 14-seat restaurant will be open Monday and Tuesday evenings from June 24, and offer a chef’s table experience where Harriet will cook elements of the menu over fire in front of guests. Known for her love of foraging, the tasting menu will be plant-forward, showcasing a diverse range of vegetables, herbs and plants, alongside smaller quantities of locally sourced fish and meat. Expect to see pine, spruce and larch featuring heavily, along with summer flowers. The menu will be accompanied by a wine or wild soft drinks pairing, created by Harriet and team.

Every detail at the Garden Table, from the decorations to the menus, will be handcrafted or designed. The menu will be inspired by the history and folklore of the area to bring the stories of the land to life through the dishes. 

‘The entire menu is representative of a desire to honour processes that take time, and to work on doing things with care and attention,’ says Harriet. ‘By learning skills and handcrafting as many elements as possible – like woodcutting and calligraphy – it imbues the entire project, from my perspective, with a slow and calm level of care and attention to detail.’ 

Dinner at the Garden Table will be £79 per person, with optional drinks flight. To reserve a table, email [email protected]