It’s one thing in the world of hospitality to have a great concept and a whole other matter executing that concept well. However, I’m delighted to share that Parade, with exquisite food by top UK chef Aiden Byrne, at Chester Race Course, has backed a winner!
With 20 years’ in lifestyle, luxury and entertainment journalism, I’m extremely lucky to have been invited to some very smart events – often they are good, rarely they are unforgettable.
An early indication that a launch will be promising is the invitation. I have to say I was genuinely impressed with the luxury feel and elegance embedded in the Parade concept from the get-go. When the boxed, crisp cream invite (complete with its City Day embossed tags) arrived at my door, it certainly had the wow factor.
But beautiful invitations aside, the food, ambience and service of a new launch, that has the likes of Royal Ascot’s consistency in fine dining to compare to, has to be truly seamless.
Parade achieved all this and much more. From the wonderful champagne welcome at its outstandingly beautiful venue, complete with a colour palette of pastel orange blossom, mint greens and soft creams, to the addition of a make-up artist in women’s powder room, every detail and possible request had been considered.
My friend Lala (real name!) a dedicated but discerning French foodie joined me at the opening of the May Festival aka City Day, sponsored by Boodles. We both sampled a seriously well designed menu by Aiden Byrne. Full disclosure – I have eaten his food before (Manchester House) and love it. But the menu at Parade was a dreamy ‘ride’ along some very exciting ingredient combinations and flavours. The addition of excellent paired wines, selected by the absolutely brilliant and wonderfully composed Isabelle, gave this the full five star experience.
Our menu included a parmesan soup with shallot ravioli (divine), a very satisfying braised beef main, followed by a fab strawberry pudding, sat alongside his famous Manchester tart (a Chester tart for that day only!).
Aiden, his super efficient kitchen team and delightful waiting staff delivered a seamless and high-end fine dining experience that’s a clearly sought after option for both old-school race goers and those who simply want to immerse themselves in the glamour of Parade’s exclusive vibe. Parade with Aiden Byrne continues throughout this racing season and attendance is limited due to its exclusive nature.
If you are fortunate enough to upgrade to Parade, as well as outstanding hospitality, expect to spot a few famous faces too. From sports stars and celebs, to social media influencers with zillions of followers, it is clearly THE place to be at Chester Races.
Parade with Aiden Byrne is clearly THE place to be at Chester Races…
That’s not least because of its enviable location and view next to the winning post, but also thank to it’s heated luxury outdoor lounge (with cosy blankets if it gets chilly) and amazing roof terrace. I have to confess to being slightly surprised to find Manchester City midfielder Bernardo Silva on the table next to us, just days before his team’s Premier League success.
Other well known faces who embraced the charm and luxurious ambience of Parade in the opening week included Georgia Toffolo, Gethin Jones, Sir Alex Ferguson and Paul Hollywood, as well as lots of the ‘Cheshire set’.
Parade is certainly a fine dining and racing experience to savour – even if you don’t back a winner, losing in style is certainly very fashionable!
For bookings and more information:
https://www.chester-races.com/racing/restaurant-dining/parade
Telephone: Call 01244 304 631
