Ex-Rolling Stones & Le Gavroche chef takes on Canterbury pub

Jim Cleaver trained as an apprentice chef at the age of 16, before becoming commis chef at top London restaurant Le Gavroche then joining catering services company Eat To The Beat.

He said: “I worked for the company for 10 years, becoming head chef, and catering for the likes of the Rolling Stones, U2, Oasis, Blur and Take That. We mostly travelled around the world with them on tour, but could also be called on to cook for them at home or when they were recording in the studio. I don’t remember any really weird requests.

"They may have been big stars with private jets, able to rent out entire floors of hotels, but they often just wanted simple comfort food like cheese on toast.”

Cleaver tired of travelling, and opened a sandwich and coffee bar in Hitchin, Hertfordshire, which he ran for four years, before moving down to Deal and opening his own restaurant, 81 Beach Street, which won numerous awards.

Cleaver said he always liked the idea of running a big country pub, and was recommended the site by his friend Rob Taylor, who runs Shepherd Neame’s Compasses Inn in Crundale.

Cleaver took over the pub in the middle of December, closing it for a couple of weeks to undertake a refurbishment which included refitting the kitchen and painting throughout, before reopening on Sunday, January 3.

It is open from Midday to 11pm, Monday to Saturday, with last food orders at 9.30pm - and from Midday to 5pm on Sunday.

Derek Bond, who worked at 81 Beach Street as commis chef 10 years ago, has been appointed as head chef, following roles at acclaimed restaurants including Thackeray’s in Tunbridge Wells and The Marquis at Alkham.

Cleaver said: “It is great to be working with Derek again. We have created a fantastic menu for The Granville offering simple yet imaginative dishes using the best ingredients, at affordable prices. We have a daily set lunch menu, along with a selection of light bites, platters and main courses, and a special children’s menu.

"It has been a busy few weeks getting the pub ready, but we have had a lot of support from Shepherd Neame and are really excited about this new venture. Our aim is to make everyone feel welcome here, and enjoy their time with us, whether it is just for a drink or for a meal.”

Shepherd Neame’s director of retail and tenanted operations Nigel Bunting said: “Jim is a fantastic chef and restaurateur with a great track record, and we are delighted that he is taking on The Granville. We are confident that he will take the pub from strength to strength.”