The Francis Hotel announces new 'Emberwood' restaurant

Emberwood has been unveiled as the newest, hugely anticipated restaurant to open in the heart of Bath later this year.

The British brasserie, whose name pays homage to architect and previous resident John Wood Senior, will also celebrate locally-grown and locally-sourced produce which will be prepared with theatre in a feature open kitchen and charcoal-fired hearth in front of their dining room guests.

Located on Barton Street, this fresh dining concept is led by General Manager Shaun Bowles and created in partnership with passionate restaurateur and managing director of Five Graces Hospitality; Alex Ghalleb. With a prolific 16-year career in successful restaurant launches, Alex’s most recent projects have included the opening of celebrity hotspot Julie’s in London’s Holland Park and the inimitable Dorian in Notting Hill. 

Leading the Emberwood team, David Hazell has been appointed as Executive Head Chef and Sharky Patterson as Restaurant General Manager.

Under David’s culinary flair, the menu will be inspired by the fascinating history and legacy of Bath, and will focus on thoughtful, ingredient-driven dishes that highlight Somerset’s rich agricultural landscape, reflecting a commitment to local producers, seasonal cooking, and the joy of gathering around the fire to share good food.

Alongside the new restaurant, a fully refurbished bar will offer an extensive selection of the finest wines and signature cocktails. A dynamic team of partners, including Zoe Burgess, the celebrated author of The Cocktail Cabinet and director of Atelier Pip, will create an impressive cocktail list.

Shaun comments, “We are incredibly excited to unveil Emberwood and the outstanding team that will be part of this new dining experience. At the heart of our restaurant is the best, seasonal, locally-sourced ingredients, cooked authentically and prepared in a feature open kitchen and charcoal-fired hearth. Our building is one of the original Georgian buildings in Bath, we are at the heart of Bath’s history and want to invite all the local community to experience our fantastic new menus and hospitality.”

Emberwood is part of the multi-million pound refurbishment of The Francis Hotel on Queen Square and will open in Spring 2025.