Albert and Michel Roux to run restaurant at Epsom Derby

Albert and Michel Roux Jr Roux are returning to the horseracing circuit to run a restaurant at Epsom Downs Racecourse during the world-famous Investec Derby in June.

The chefs will open ‘Chez Roux on the Prince’s Lawn’ over the two-day Derby festival, which attracts over 125,000 people and will take place on 6-7 June.

The restaurant will feature a bistro-inspired three-course lunch menu, with a series of signature dishes created by the father-and-son team.

Starters such as English Asparagus, Hen Egg, Feta Cheese, Aubergine Caviar and Truffle Dressing will followed by a meaty main such as Roast Fillet of Beef with Mushroom, Pork belly with Apple Sauce, Venison Sausage with Mash Potato and Onion Gravy or a Plateau de Fruits de Mer.

Rupert Trevelyan, regional director of London Racecourses,said: “We are very excited to be working alongside two outstanding Michelin Starred chefs to provide an additional dimension to the creative thinking behind the Investec Derby menu development."

Albert added: “I am delighted to be involved with the Investec Derby as this race meeting is a major part of the British social calendar and I feel immensely proud to be showcasing our food at this prestigious event."

Horseracing history

This is the second racecourse restaurant for Albert and Michel, who ran a restaurant at the four-day Cheltenham festival last year. 

It should strengthen their partnership with the Jockey Club, which owns both Cheltenham racecourse and Epsom Downs, and is putting an increasing emphasis on fine dining at its events.

The Jockey Club won for its Equus restaurant at Haydock Park Racecourse, as well as the Judges Catering Excellence Award for Sandown Park, at last year's National Racecourse Catering Awards.

Roux family plans

The Roux family continue to run a series of successful restaurants around the world including Roux at the Landau, Roux at Parliament Square and Le Gavroche.

They recently appointed the Fourpure Brewing Company to produce a bespoke Roux Brew house beer for their UK restaurants, after holding a competition between 12 London breweries.

“The freshness of the grapefruit and orange zest and coriander seed really stood out – this is a beer that has a zing about it, and we feel it will partner perfectly with the flavours of our summer menu,” said Michel Roux Jr.

Albert told BigHospitality last October that he and his son have plans to open two more venues in the UK – a charcuterie, deli and restaurant in the Midlands and a restaurant in Essex.