The chef behind Flintlock in Cheddleton has announced plans to open a second venue – on the same site as his current one.
The new restaurant, which will be called Après, will be located in a new building next door to Flintlock.
It will specialise in small plates consisting of local produce. It will feature upstairs, downstairs, and outdoor dining space. It will feature more of a “relaxed” atmosphere to Flintlock.
Thom Bateman, who has appeared on Great British Menu on BBC2, first opened Flintlock in 2020.
However, his history with Cheddleton dates back a lot longer. Bateman actually started his career in the same building currently occupied by Flintock. It was formally the site of the Castros Latin American restaurant, where Bateman worked in 2003.
Bateman is financing the building of the second business himself. While describing the new venture, he stated: “Après will have all the same high standards as The Flintlock but I want to create a more relaxed environment that doesn’t need to be planned months or weeks in advance.”
Recruitment for the business will start soon, with Bateman looking to employ around 10 people.
Bateman has a huge social media following, with 1.3 million followers on Instagram and 2.6 million on TikTok. Flintlock earned its Michelin Guide status in early 2024.
Experienced writer and journalist James McKean leads the daily editorial output at StaffsLive. To contact him, email news@staffslive.co.uk
