New head chef appointed at Herefordshire riverside pub

Local lads Ellis Rutsch and Tom Sime have joined the kitchen team at the Hope and Anchor in Ross-on-Wye as head chef and senior sous chef.

They have already worked together for nine years, most recently at the Severn and Wye Smokery, an award-winning restaurant with two AA rosettes, which a spokesperson for the pub said is a "massive benefit" to the team, as their previous experience working together means there has been a seamless transition into their new kitchen.

Inside the Ross-on-Wye pub (Image: Hope and Anchor)

Head chef Mr Rutsch has previously worked at The Whitebrook which has a Michelin star and four AA rosettes.

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He said he is now excited to take on a new challenge at riverside restaurant and inn The Hope and Anchor and its sister venue, cocktail bar and event space The Pavilion.

Both have a passion for using local produce and ingredients and have a good local following whom they plan to wow with their culinary delights in a new, riverside setting. The team will continue to source locally under Mr Rutsch's lead, working with suppliers from Hereford to produce quality seasonal menus.

The new pub menu launched in January 2024, with a selection traditional pub grub and modern takes. A new vegan menu has also launched, with hand-picked dishes that have already garnered interest amongst locals, a pub spokesperson said.