How Next Door Became One of Cheshire’s Finest Restaurants
In the intimate setting of Frodsham’s old butcher’s shop, Next Door is the product of a marriage between chef Richard Nuttall and sommelier Vicki Nuttall. This happy union has resulted in one of Cheshire’s most in-demand restaurants. Absolutely visited to chat with Richard and restaurant manager Tom Birtles about keeping it in the family, the joy of tasting menus, and environmental concerns.
Richard Nuttall – Chef Patron
The Inspiration Behind Next Door
Richard and Vicki always dreamed of opening a restaurant together, combining Vicki’s passion for wine with Richard’s love for food. They aimed to create a space that brought food and wine enthusiasts together in a relaxed environment, serving refined dishes using the best local produce.
Why Frodsham?
Frodsham was the perfect location due to Vicki’s family legacy in the town. H.E. Cowards, a five-generation butcher’s shop, had been a local institution for nearly a century. When the original Cowards building became available, Richard and Vicki knew it was the ideal spot to start Next Door’s journey.
The Name and Concept
The name “Next Door” comes from the fact that Richard and Vicki initially lived next door to the restaurant. It also represents the sense of community in Frodsham, with many of Vicki’s family members having grown up nearby.
Tom Birtles – Restaurant Manager
Menu Philosophy
Next Door works within micro-seasons, offering monthly changing tasting menus and evening à la carte options. They also provide a market lunch menu that can change daily, showcasing the best local and seasonal produce.
The Tasting Menu Experience
Tom believes the tasting menu is the best way to experience a chef’s vision. Next Door’s tasting menu includes:
- Moreish snacks to start
- Their signature poppyseed and rapeseed oil bread
- A five-course culinary journey highlighting seasonal flavors and sustainable methods
Seasonal Highlights
September brings the widest selection of produce, making it an exciting month for dining. Guests can expect a variety of berries, orchard fruits, vegetables, herbs, fish, and the start of game season.
Drinks and Wine Program
Next Door offers:
- Seasonally changing cocktails and mocktails
- An extensive world wine list curated by Vicki
- Wine flights to accompany the tasting menu
Sustainability and Local Sourcing
Next Door prioritizes sustainability and local sourcing:
- They work with a network of local Cheshire suppliers
- Use produce from Cheshire Market Gardens, a ‘no dig’ market garden
- Source foraged ingredients from Enchanted Forage
- Implement sustainable practices like lacto-fermentation and nose-to-tail preparation
By focusing on local ingredients and sustainable methods, Next Door has established itself as a leader in Cheshire’s culinary scene, offering exceptional dining experiences while championing environmental responsibility.
