Business Details
Experience Seasonal Fine Dining at The Walrus
The Walrus, nestled in Shrewsbury, Shropshire, is a Michelin-recognised fine dining restaurant co-owned by Ben Hall and Carla Ernst. Our philosophy centres on seasonality and locality, sourcing premium ingredients from trusted local suppliers to craft unforgettable culinary experiences. Ben's career spans prestigious Michelin-starred kitchens, including The Elephant and Gidleigh Park, while Carla combines culinary expertise with business acumen honed at Ashburton Cookery School and Gidleigh Park.Together, we lead a dedicated team committed to excellence in both food and service. Our menus evolve with the seasons, showcasing the finest regional produce through innovative dishes that balance tradition and modernity. The Walrus also features an intimate cocktail bar offering curated wines and seasonal small plates. With over a decade of combined leadership experience and a passion for hospitality, we strive to create memorable dining moments that celebrate Shropshire's natural bounty.
Services
Tasting Menu
A La Carte
Bar Menu
Wine Pairing
Private Dining
Sunday Lunch
Highlights and features
- We offer Michelin-recognised culinary expertise from award-winning chefs
- Our menus feature ingredients sourced from trusted local Shropshire suppliers
- Dishes change seasonally to showcase produce at its peak freshness
- We combine fine dining with relaxed, welcoming atmosphere
- Our team includes professionals with decades of hospitality experience
Associations and certifications
- Michelin Guide
Services
Tasting Menu
Our seasonal tasting menu showcases Shropshire's finest produce through eight meticulously crafted courses. Each dish balances innovation and tradition, featuring ingredients sourced from trusted local farms. The menu changes quarterly to reflect ingredient availability and culinary creativity, offering diners a unique journey through regional flavours. Vegetarian and pescatarian options available.
A La Carte
The a la carte menu offers carefully composed dishes highlighting seasonal ingredients. Featuring both classic and contemporary preparations, the menu allows guests to create a personalised dining experience. Dishes include Herefordshire beef fillet, salt cod with mussel soup, and housemade Japanese milk bread with miso butter.
Bar Menu
Upstairs at The Walrus provides an intimate setting with creative cocktails and seasonal small plates. The bar menu features both classic and innovative drinks alongside curated wines and informal dining options. Open daily with extended Friday and Saturday hours.
Wine Pairing
Our sommelier-curated wine pairings complement both tasting and a la carte menus. The collection includes both Old World and New World wines, with special attention to producers who share our commitment to quality and sustainability. Non-alcoholic pairing options also available.
Private Dining
The restaurant offers exclusive hire options for private events. The space accommodates up to 40 guests with bespoke menu options available. Ideal for special celebrations, corporate events, or intimate gatherings with dedicated service from our experienced team.
People
Ben Hall
Chef / Owner
Ben began his culinary journey in Shrewsbury before training at Birmingham College. He gained Michelin-starred experience at The Elephant and Gidleigh Park, developing expertise in fine dining. Now co-owner of The Walrus, he brings creative vision and technical mastery to our seasonal menus.
Carla Ernst
Chef / Owner
Carla combines business expertise with culinary training from Ashburton Cookery School. Her career includes roles at Gidleigh Park and Ilsington Country House Hotel. She specialises in ice cream and sorbet creation, bringing creative flair to The Walrus's dessert offerings.
Ivalina Ivanova
General Manager
Iva has over a decade of hospitality experience, including management roles across Shropshire. As general manager, she oversees service standards and guest experiences. Her expertise ensures seamless operations and exceptional front-of-house service at The Walrus.
Questions
How do I book a table at The Walrus?
Reservations can be made through our website or by calling 01743 240005. We recommend booking in advance, especially for weekend dining.
What menus are available on Saturdays?
Saturday evenings exclusively feature our 6-course tasting menu. Saturday lunch offers both tasting and a la carte options.
Do you cater for dietary requirements?
Yes, we offer vegetarian and pescatarian tasting menus. Please inform us of any dietary needs when booking.
What are the bar's opening hours?
The bar is open Wednesday-Friday 5pm-10:30pm, Saturday 12pm-10:30pm. Bar food service ends at 9:30pm Friday and Saturday.
Is there parking available?
Street parking is available near our Claremont Bank location. We recommend checking local signage for restrictions.
When is the restaurant closed for summer break?
The restaurant will be closed from Sunday 7th September to Tuesday 23rd September 2025, reopening on Wednesday 24th September.
Reviews (7)
Francis Mac Aonghus
Dec 18, 2021
Report
A little nugget of silver in shrewsbury. much needed too as the city lacks somewhere special for that special occasion. Set menu, and you can accompany it with wine. Every course delicious. Staff were very attentive and friendly. Only odd thing is the size of the kitchen, but all else good, and i would certainly be back there if in the area.
Mark Walker
Dec 09, 2021
Report
Visited The Walrus for recent birthday celebrations. It may well be the best restaurant I've ever been to. The service was friendly, knowledgable and efficient. The food was absolutely incredible and a credit to the two chefs who can be seen preparing across the room. The whole experience was so good we booked another visit there and then.
Chris Greenaway
Nov 29, 2021
Report
Been to 4 or 5 other Michelin and Rosette standard restaurants. The Walrus definitely had the best food, every dish was spot on, great mix of flavours and delicious ingredients. Nice laid back atmosphere, service staff were professional, knowledgeable and smiley. Great stuff highly recommended
James Cator
Oct 31, 2021
Report
Just fantastic food. We had the tasting menu with wine flight and it was all delicious. Some really interesting wine pairings that you wouldn't think to make yourself, but all complemented the food very well. The 6 courses went well together, and the portion sizes were perfect. The white port Manhattan was a great way to start the meal as well. Overall a really great dining experience. Definitely one to try and get a table at if you can!
Linda Roberts
Oct 21, 2021
Report
We had taster menu with wine - service excellent food good - my first taster menu - wouldn't go for another - over priced
Uknowwho
Oct 08, 2020
Report
This was an amazing evening. Tasting menu was varied and delicious, and the service was incredible. Very highly recommended!
John Bishop
Sep 21, 2019
Report
Just awesome, from the original and tasty food to the friendly service, we all had the tasting menu and we're glad to see there is now a drinks pairing option. It's not cheap but for the quality and innovation it's great value. My pictures don't do the food the justice it deserves.
