Business Details
24 Years
experience
Michelin-Starred Modern British Cuisine in Amersham
The Artichoke is a Michelin-starred restaurant located in the heart of Old Amersham, Buckinghamshire. Established in 2002 by Chef Patron Laurie Gear and his wife Jacqueline, we specialise in innovative and refined modern British cuisine, utilising the finest seasonal ingredients sourced locally from the Chiltern Hills and surrounding regions. Our commitment to excellence has earned us accolades including inclusion in the UK Top 100 Restaurants (Square Meal 2019), AA Restaurant of the Year for England (2013-2014), and a Michelin Star (2019).Despite facing challenges such as a devastating fire in 2009, we have consistently rebuilt and elevated our offerings, combining a warm neighbourhood atmosphere with professional service. Our menu evolves with the seasons, reflecting our dedication to foraged and artisanal produce, while private dining experiences and curated wine events further enhance our reputation as a destination for exceptional gastronomy.
Services
Modern British Cuisine
Private Dining Events
Wine Pairing Experiences
Gift Vouchers
Seasonal Menus
Details
- Year established: 2002
Highlights and features
- We hold a Michelin Star for culinary excellence since 2019.
- Our menus feature seasonal, locally sourced ingredients from the Chiltern Hills.
- Private dining options cater to intimate and corporate events.
- Award-winning team with over two decades of gastronomic expertise.
- Historic setting in Old Amersham with a warm, professional service ethos.
Associations and certifications
- Michelin Star
What people say
Michelin-starred excellence
Seasonal local ingredients
Professional service
Award-winning reputation
Memorable private dining
Services
Modern British Cuisine
Artichokes menu showcases innovative modern British dishes crafted from seasonal ingredients sourced locally from the Chiltern Hills and beyond. Each plate emphasizes texture, clarity, and the natural flavours of foraged and artisanal produce. The ever-evolving menu reflects the teams dedication to sustainability and culinary creativity, ensuring a unique experience with every visit.
Private Dining Events
Our first-floor private dining room offers an intimate setting for up to six guests, featuring tailored menus and dedicated service. Ideal for celebrations or corporate gatherings, the space combines historic charm with modern comforts. Wine pairings and bespoke themes enhance the exclusivity of each event.
Wine Pairing Experiences
Collaborations with premium wineries like Hundred Hills and Charles Heidsieck Champagne House deliver immersive wine-paired dining experiences. Each event includes expert-led tastings and specially designed menus to highlight complementary flavours. Limited availability ensures an exclusive, memorable occasion.
Gift Vouchers
Gift vouchers provide access to Artichokes Michelin-starred experience, allowing recipients to enjoy seasonal menus or private dining. Available in custom denominations, they make ideal presents for special occasions. Redemption requires advance reservation.
Culinary Events
Seasonal events like the Michelin Road to Stars tasting menu celebrate British produce through limited-time offerings. These experiences often feature guest collaborations, such as winemakers or foragers, and include themed menus paired with expert insights to elevate the dining journey.
People
Laurie Gear
Chef Patron
Award-winning chef Laurie Gear founded The Artichoke in 2002, pioneering modern British cuisine with a focus on seasonal and foraged ingredients. His accolades include a Michelin Star and recognition in Square Meal and The Good Food Guide.
Jacqueline Gear
Co-Owner
Jacqueline Gear co-founded The Artichoke with her husband Laurie, overseeing front-of-house operations and contributing to the restaurants reputation for warm, professional service.
Questions
How do I make a reservation at The Artichoke?
Reserve via our website or call 01494 726611. Private dining requires advance booking.
Does The Artichoke offer private dining options?
Yes, our first-floor private dining room accommodates up to six guests with tailored menus.
What cuisine does The Artichoke specialise in?
We focus on modern British cuisine using seasonal, locally sourced ingredients and foraged produce.
Are gift vouchers available?
Yes, vouchers for dining experiences can be purchased through our website.
What awards has The Artichoke won?
We hold a Michelin Star (2019), AA Restaurant of the Year for England (2013-2014), and Square Meal accolades.
Is The Artichoke accessible for special dietary needs?
Our team accommodates dietary requirements with advance notice. Discuss preferences during booking.
Reviews (6)
Paul Brown
Jan 19, 2022
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So very disappointing. The decor is like a 1970s Travelodge dining room. Serving staff seemed nervous and overwhelmed with very few diners. The service for the set menu was so slow. 2h30m to even get to the main. And the food... Two courses were wildly overcooked. The various 'clever' ingredients in dishes were indiscernible. No creativity in flavour or texture combinations. If this is Michelin quality then I think they got the Michelin tyre guy in rather than dining.
Probably, pound for pound, the most disappointing and worst meal I've had in a fine dining restaurant.
Gives good food a bad
Probably, pound for pound, the most disappointing and worst meal I've had in a fine dining restaurant.
Gives good food a bad
Sam Saunters
Jan 16, 2022
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The 7 course tasting menu with accompanying wine was out of this world. Would recommend to those of a foodie disposition. I would say be aware it is 7 glasses of wine all in - any drinking beforehand can lead to a very boozy evening!
Sam Kilminster
Dec 28, 2021
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Came here last summer for an anniversary lunch. The food was very good but the waiter made a mistake with one of the wines and then just became really rude, stomping around etc. made me really uncomfortable and spoiled the whole lunch. I contacted the restaurant twice to make them aware, I thought theyd appreciate the feedback but no response. Really disappointed with the whole experience.
Priya S.
Nov 18, 2021
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My husband and I came for my birthday and we had a fabulous time on our first visit. The tasting menu was delicious and we were happy to see that they took on board dietary requirements and made slight adjustments, without compromising on flavour. We were initially put on a table that meant we sat side-by-side, which i wasn't a fan of, but they were happy to move us, which was lovely. I'd like to say a particular thank you to Luca and Frank (who's first day it was) for their excellent service. The only slight gripe is that it was very difficult to hear them sometimes through the visors, but we
Bronwyn Boughton
Nov 10, 2021
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It is actually quite difficult to get a reservation at Artichoke and so we ended up booking roughly 3 or four weeks in advance for a Thursday night booking. We were really looking forward to it, due to its Michelin star and good reputation. We arrived and were swiftly seated near the kitchen which was great but adjacent to the maitre d station which endured a lot of slamming of drawers. We both enjoyed the tasting menu, however, when we ordered we were not offered the wine flight despite it being on the menu. This was a shame, as I would have taken the wine flight if offered. We often eat tasting
Ben Brown
Oct 27, 2021
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Lovely restaurant for a relaxing meal. Great quality food cooked really well. Specifically I'll call out the sauces which were so flavourful and amazing. Actually pretty reasonable price for the food quality but a meal for a special occasion. All the staff were amazingly friendly and overall I would definitely visit again!
