The chef is looking to raise £60,000 on crowdfunding platform Kickstarter to take over former pub The Chequers in Slaugham, West Sussex, and turn it into destination restaurant Heritage.
As of today (14 February) he has raised £60,782 from 410 backers, with 23 days of the crowdfund still to go.
Gillan has been helped in his cause by fellow chefs and friends Daniel Clifford and Michael O’Hare, both of whom are creating a five-course meal for two guests for pledges of £280 or more. Such has been the popularity of these meals that both chefs have agreed to do an additional service, according to Gillan’s Twitter feed.
Gillan, who won a Michelin star while cooking at The Pass in Horsham, intends to open Heritage restaurant this summer. His new venue will have a main dining room and more casual eating and drinking areas and will serve a set lunch menu, a la carte and tasting menu. The premises will also have five bedrooms, which are expected to open later in the year.
“Most young chefs dream of having their own restaurant - I am one of those chefs (although not so young anymore),” he says.
“Over the years my vision has evolved, but my principles have remained the same. Somewhere where we can create a memorable experience, for each and every guest visiting.”