New open-fire restaurant Emberwood to open in Bath this May

This May, Emberwood will make its debut as one of Bath’s most anticipated restaurant openings, igniting the city’s dining scene with open-fire cooking and a meticulously crafted seasonal menu.

Earlier this year, Bath was named one of the world’s top culinary destinations by the Michelin Guide, setting the stage for an extraordinary year across the city’s food and arts scene. With preparations in full swing for the 250th anniversary of the city’s most celebrated daughter, Jane Austen, Bath is poised to shine on both the cultural and culinary map as never before. 

Image: Emberwood Bath

Brought to life as part of a multi-million-pound restoration of one of the city’s most iconic addresses, Emberwood takes its name partly from John Wood the Elder, the visionary architect behind much of Georgian Bath’s architectural grandeur. The restaurant will showcase a dining experience rooted in local provenance and seasonality, with a dramatic open kitchen and charcoal-fired hearth providing a captivating focal point for guests.

Image: Executive Head Chef David Hazell

David Hazell, formerly of Michelin-starred Paco Tapas and Bristol’s Clifton Lido, takes the role of Executive Head Chef, bringing his signature ingredient-led style to Emberwood. David’s menu will celebrate the rich agricultural bounty of Somerset and the South West. Starters will include burnt aubergine with goat’s curd, confit tomatoes, green beans, as well as crispy Porthilly oysters with Somerset lardo and spiced ketchup.

Image: Emberwood Bath

Mains further reflect Hazell’s commitment to sourcing the finest local produce including West Country bavette with anchovy butter, green chilli, and Koffman fries, while vegetarian options include Charred courgette and wild garlic cacio e pepe and Hake with caramelised fennel, samphire and charred potatoes. 

Adding the all important final note, classic British desserts have been given a fresh modern twist. Highlights include Miso custard tart with vanilla pod ice cream and Chocolate mousse with coca nib brownie, raspberry and tarragon ice cream. 

Complimenting the menu is an inspired cocktail list crafted by Zoe Burgess, the celebrated author of The Cocktail Cabinet and director of Atelier Pip. Guests can expect signature serves that reflect the surrounding countryside and the art of British mixology. Highlights include Solomon’s Spritz – a crisp blend of Somerset cider brandy, Pomona, Vault Champagne and Oyster vermouth, and Hundred Hills Sparkling Wine, while the Emberwood Negroni offers a sophisticated twist with London Dry Gin, Vault Bitter, Sweet Vermouth, and a black cardamom and saffron tincture.

At the helm of Emberwood are some of the most respected names in hospitality, ensuring the brasserie reflects the city’s rich heritage while offering a modern, vibrant experience. The project is being overseen by leading consultancy Five Graces Hospitality, whose portfolio includes celebrated London destinations such as Julie’s in Holland Park and Dorian in Notting Hill.

With its enviable location in the heart of the city and a team of industry leaders behind it, Emberwood is poised to become a must-visit UK dining destination, perfectly complementing Bath’s upcoming year of cultural and culinary celebrations. 

Emberwood is set to open at No. 5 Queen Square in May 2025. Reservations will open on Thursday 3 April.