Nathan Cornwell's passion for food was ignited at a young age, growing up in rural Cambridgeshire where his parents encouraged his love of cooking. After completing his culinary training at the Academy of Culinary Arts, Cornwell embarked on an illustrious career, working under renowned chefs in luxury hotels and Michelin-starred restaurants.
When he took over The Silver Birch in Chiswick, a west London neighborhood often overlooked by tourists and locals alike, Cornwell faced a daunting task. The restaurant had been struggling to find its footing, but the determined chef was undaunted. With his vision of creating a refined, seasonal fine dining experience that showcases British ingredients, Cornwell set out to revitalize the space.
One of the key factors in his success is his commitment to using locally sourced produce, often foraging for ingredients along the Thames or growing herbs in planters behind the restaurant. The emphasis on reducing waste is evident throughout the kitchen, with stocks being reused and vegetable peels transformed into sauces.
The menu at The Silver Birch is a masterclass in British cuisine, with dishes such as Devon crab served in a caviar tin alongside buttery crumpets, and pasta made from locally sourced squash. Cornwell's passion for his food shines through on every plate, and his dedication to using only the freshest ingredients ensures that each dish is both delicious and visually stunning.
The Silver Birch has become a favorite among locals and tourists alike, with its Michelin-starred chef at the helm. While a star is not the ultimate goal for Cornwell, it would undoubtedly bring a new level of attention to the restaurant and encourage more people to venture into west London.
Despite the pressure that comes with maintaining a high standard, Cornwell remains focused on his craft, always looking for ways to innovate and improve his menu. For those in the know, The Silver Birch is a culinary gem, a secret only shared among those who have stumbled upon this hidden gem of Chiswick's high street.
When he took over The Silver Birch in Chiswick, a west London neighborhood often overlooked by tourists and locals alike, Cornwell faced a daunting task. The restaurant had been struggling to find its footing, but the determined chef was undaunted. With his vision of creating a refined, seasonal fine dining experience that showcases British ingredients, Cornwell set out to revitalize the space.
One of the key factors in his success is his commitment to using locally sourced produce, often foraging for ingredients along the Thames or growing herbs in planters behind the restaurant. The emphasis on reducing waste is evident throughout the kitchen, with stocks being reused and vegetable peels transformed into sauces.
The menu at The Silver Birch is a masterclass in British cuisine, with dishes such as Devon crab served in a caviar tin alongside buttery crumpets, and pasta made from locally sourced squash. Cornwell's passion for his food shines through on every plate, and his dedication to using only the freshest ingredients ensures that each dish is both delicious and visually stunning.
The Silver Birch has become a favorite among locals and tourists alike, with its Michelin-starred chef at the helm. While a star is not the ultimate goal for Cornwell, it would undoubtedly bring a new level of attention to the restaurant and encourage more people to venture into west London.
Despite the pressure that comes with maintaining a high standard, Cornwell remains focused on his craft, always looking for ways to innovate and improve his menu. For those in the know, The Silver Birch is a culinary gem, a secret only shared among those who have stumbled upon this hidden gem of Chiswick's high street.