MasterChef contestant to open bistro in north Norfolk

Amy Mackrill

25 June 2024 at 2:26 am·2-min read

Michael Carr and Charlotte Taylor will open Michael's Bistro on July 1 <i>(Image: Michael's Bistro)</i> — Michael Carr and Charlotte Taylor will open Michael's Bistro on July 1 *(Image: Michael's Bistro)*

A chef who appeared on MasterChef is opening a dog-friendly bistro in a north Norfolk market town.

Michael's Bistro will open for business on July 1 in Franklyn's Yard in Holt.

When the site of the former Il Calabrese restaurant became available in May, Michael Carr, 34, and Charlotte Taylor, 28, jumped at the opportunity to start their first business together.

Sea bass will be one of the dishes on the menu (Image: Michael's Bistro) The couple, who live in Holt, are hoping to create a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere, serving good value food made fresh with local ingredients.

Born and bred in Norfolk, Mr Carr has worked in north Norfolk as a chef since he was 16.

He worked at The Pheasant in Kelling for eight years where he started as a line cook before working his way up to become the head chef.

Mr Carr appeared on the opening rounds of MasterChef: The Professionals in 2019 and credits his foster parent - who was also a chef - for making him fall in love with cooking.

Eton Mess will be available from the pudding menu (Image: Michael's Bistro) "We’re doing cafe food with a little bit of a spin," he said. "In the evenings we’re going to be doing small plates and large plates.

"It's going to be good value, good quality produce from local suppliers.

"We're not trying to be anything too fancy, it won’t be fine dining, just a nice and relaxing place to sit and enjoy good quality food."

Snacks, small plates and large plates will include dishes such as croquettes, tacos, pizzas and locally sourced meat and seafood dishes such as crab, pork and sea bass.

The menu will feature "good quality produce" from local suppliers (Image: Michael's Bistro) The breakfast menu will feature a traditional full English as well as dishes such as Eggs Benedict and avocado on toast.

Ms Taylor, who has worked in numerous pubs, restaurants and cafes in the area, will head up the front of house.

Michael's Bistro will open between 8am and 9pm from Thursday to Saturday and from 8am to 5pm during the rest of the week.

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