Thorpe Park Hotel and Spa - owned by Thwaites - has opened a new experience restaurant named FYR Grill.
FYR Grill - pronounced ‘fire’ - is an open-flame grill concept, meaning the menu is focused on dishes that are cooked directly over fire, and guests are able to dine in an immersive, open kitchen-style experience - with the main cooking area located among the diners in the restaurant.
There are a variety of seating and dining options, but especially, up to 10 guests are able to sit around a central open grill and enjoy their meal just inches away from the theatrical style flaming area where it was just cooked.
The new menu is also suitable for vegetarians and vegans as well as those who enjoy meat dishes, and serves up dishes like ember queenie scallops, crispy ox cheek, 12oz tomahawk steak, Thwaites Paradise beer can whole chicken, halloumi shawarma, and a range of fire hanging kebabs.
The smoke from cooking food over fire brings hundreds of flavour and aroma profiles - food is browned, caramelised, and charred - and the flavours are enhanced through the process.
General manager at Thorpe Park Hotel and Spa, Paul Nixon, said: “Creating memorable experiences has always been a top priority for us here at Thorpe Park Hotel and Spa – and we know that FYR is going to add a whole new level to that.
“Think live roaring flames, chef interactions, and sensational fresh flavours – we’re all about the experience.”
The project has seen £500,000 invested, which covers a complete interiors overhaul with a whole new look and feel to the aesthetics of the restaurant, a custom-made grill area and modern catering equipment, as well as a breakfast counter and chef’s table.
The design direction was led by head of interior design at Thwaites, Rachel Wooton, who says it was important to create a friendly and social dining space.
Rachel said: “To complement the immersive grilling aspect of this investment, we really wanted to home in on creating a space that well and truly envelopes you in social interaction.
“The open-fire grill takes centre stage here, prompting conversations and sparking those real ‘wow’ moments.
The Yorkshire Post’s business newsletter brings you the best news and analysis - subscribe here
“So, to lean into those exciting interactions, we’ve introduced warmth and vibrancy to the colours and tones in this space.
“We’ve added bespoke eclectic artwork, cosy booth seating, and atmospheric lighting – all to create a sense of comfort, communication, and a little bit of luxury.”
Paul added: “We’re always looking for new ways to invest in and elevate our offering, and with FYR already reeling in unbeatable reviews at our other hotels, this naturally felt like the next big investment for us.
“The team has worked incredibly hard planning, designing and executing this fantastic new space, so we’re really excited to welcome guests through our doors.”
FYR is not the only investment the Yorkshire hotel has recently undertaken. Last spring, Thorpe Park Hotel and Spa opened a ‘relaxation lounge’ in its spa area for adult-only guests.
The space boasts guided meditation sessions through VR headsets, seating, a rehydration station, as well as heated loungers.