The ExpatWoman team were invited to try out Michelin starred, celebrity chef Gary Rhodes OBE new restaurant concept Rhodes In Residence in the newly opened Tower Two of the luxurious Grovesnor House.

We arrived early and were treated to the sight of the man himself getting everything ready and laid out in impeccable style. It was exciting to watch Gary in action live, right in front of us and not on the TV! We were invited to start to try the delicacies- the quintessential crusts- cut- off sandwiches of smoked salmon and cream cheese, roast beef with a dash of horseradish, egg salad with cress, and, of course, cucumber and watercress sandwiches- all very typical British afternoon tea sandwiches and all absolutely delicious.

There were hot nibbles available too including prawn and chicken skewers with peanut dipping sauce, flaky fish croquettes with hollandaise, and duck and cranberry turnovers. All were the perfect bite size and incredibly tasty... the fish croquettes were incredibly more-ish!

We tried to behave but could not resist the mini, perfectly formed desserts including delicious bite size scones with clotted cream and jam and a team favourite- mini crumpets with raspberries! Let’s just say we made more than one or two trips back to this section. The mini ice- cream cones were totally cute too! All the desserts were light and tasty and not too heavy at all. Gary himself said he wanted us to be able to have 5 desserts and try all the delicious flavours, rather than limiting yourself to one.

We were then joined by Gary to get a chance to ask him questions about his new concept and he also wanted our feedback on the menu. We were, of course, more than happy to oblige!

We have to say what a totally lovely man he is- his passion for food shines like a beacon and he obviously enjoyed chatting with us about 1970's porcupines, sausages, "perfect bite" desserts and how much he enjoys Dubai and the creativity he can express here. We can't wait for the full opening of Rhodes In Residence and are looking forward to trying out the breakfasts there- Gary gave us some insider info and it all sounds amazing! Great venue to take visitors to too as well as for girly afternoon teas- we would highly recommend ending the week with one!

About Rhodes In Residence:

Rhodes in Residence offers diners the very best in British inspired fare from morning until evening. The concept includes an impressive a la carte breakfast menu, a light bites and snacks menu, available throughout the day and the piece de resistance- a traditional British afternoon tea complete with cucumber sandwiches, freshly baked scones and delicious pastries.

EW's Jane meeting Gary...

The cutest ice cream cones...



Spoilt for choice...