Chef Tom Kerridge has addressed the backlash over the expense of dining at his two-Michelin-starred establishment, The Hand and Flowers in Marlow, acknowledging that the prices are out of reach for many. The venue offers a classic three-course tasting menu at £195 per person, alongside luxurious boutique accommodation.
Understanding Public Frustration
Speaking to The i Paper, Kerridge said: "I get people's anger and frustration with the cost of living crisis." He also noted that even the £11 average cost of takeaway fish and chips is unaffordable for some. The chef expressed frustration with politicians blaming immigration for economic woes, stating he is "fed up with hearing immigration blamed for it, hearing politicians use that to stoke division, driving a big stake through the heart of this country."
Menu Pricing and Options
As of the time of writing, The Hand and Flowers' website lists a Saturday lunch menu at £95 for two courses or £110 for three. The house menu includes a four-course selection priced at £195, with options such as fillet of beef and Cornish John Dory available Monday to Saturday.
Previous Defenses of Pricing
This is not the first time Kerridge has faced scrutiny over pricing. In 2023, he defended charging £35 for fish and chips at Harrods, explaining the high cost reflects the quality of ingredients. He told Radio Times: "I'm seen as a man of the people, so when I put fish and chips on for £35, they shout at me for it being expensive." He contrasted this with standard chippy fare, noting that the fish in most chippies is frozen at sea, while his Harrods version uses "line-caught, day-boat turbot" and specially sourced potatoes, making it "bespoke dining."
Kerridge also defended charging £87 for a sirloin steak and chips at his pub, responding on X: "Those prices include everything, VAT and service. No additional service charge at all. Also I pay staff properly and treat their job as a professional career. Perhaps the real cost of dining should be addressed. Unpretentious does not mean cheap."
