The Star Inn The City Turns 10: A Special Q&A with Chef Patron Andrew Pern
This October marks a significant milestone, as we raise our glasses to commemorate the 10th anniversary since The Star Inn The City was born.
To honour this very special occasion, we’ve had the privilege of sitting down with the culinary genius behind our award-winning restaurant, Chef Patron Andrew Pern.
Andrew Pern’s journey to The Star Inn The City took off from his earlier triumphs at the Michelin-starred Star Inn at Harome. Riding on the wave of success, he set his sights on York, envisioning a brand-new riverside brasserie that married exquisite local ingredients with top-notch service against the backdrop of the city’s charm.
In our exclusive interview with Chef Owner Andrew Pern, we delve into the inspirations that fuelled his desire to bring The Star Inn The City to life. As he reflects on the past decade, Pern shares the stories and influences that shaped his culinary philosophy, offering a behind-the-scenes glimpse into the making of one of York’s most beloved dining spots.
Andrew also graciously shares his vision for the next decade, offering insights into the exciting next steps that await both him and The Star Inn The City!
Check out the full interview below:
1. What inspired you to open up The Star Inn The City 10 years ago?
In 2013, I had already been at The Star Inn at Harome for 17 years and loved the village and working to our very high Michelin standards, but I was lured to York with the opportunity it offered for a bigger, buzzier style of a place, where we could bring a taste of the countryside to the masses! A bigger audience, if you like, offering good seasonal food in an unrivalled location.
2. How would you describe your approach to cooking?
My personal style is relaxed, seasonal and to a decent standard, using robust Northern ingredients, wherever possible.
3. What’s your proudest moment in the 10 years since The Star Inn The City opened?
I would have to choose between the special events we have hosted there over the years and it would probably have to be when we hosted the Annual Top 50 Gastropub Awards Lunch. All of the best Gastropubs in Britain descended on us for the day, literally, as it was the first time that all 50 attended! To this day, the organisers still say that it was the best Lunch they have ever held! We took advantage of the location by incorporating a Gin Booze Cruise on the Ouse, which helped to raise spirits and, apparently, we ended up at Mr P’s later on in the evening!
4. What changes have you noticed in the culinary world over the past 10 years?
Definitely the infusion of more ‘wordly’ flavours and a lighter style of food all round. Whilst we still aim to use local produce, we do so with a nod towards other types of cuisine.
5. If you were cooking a meal for The Star Inn The City staff to celebrate the 10 year Anniversary, what would you make?
Wow, so many different dishes to choose from! The Seared Sea Scallops with Yorkshire Rhubarb, Fresh Ginger and Scallions would be a great starter, then some form of game, such as the Risotto of Rievaulx Partridge with Braised Chestnuts, Wilted Kale and Smoked Wensleydale – with Shavings of Black Truffle, as it is a special celebration! For Pudding, I would like to do something like ‘Perny’s Chocolate Orange’, which was a twist on its Terry’s namesake; a classic combination made in a chocolate sphere mould with chocolate mousse, Cointreau and sugared zest!
6. If you could go back in time, what’s one piece of advice you would give yourself 10 years ago?
It would be to have more confidence in my instincts and not to listen to the locals who told us that nobody ate in that part of York, or had breakfast out or ate at lunchtime. Fortunately, we ploughed ahead and stuck to our guns to prove them wrong!
7. What are you ordering to drink from The Star Inn The City Bar?
Having once drunk with a certain amount of gusto, it has to be said that I now drink very little, except maybe a fine red wine, a good lager or perhaps an ‘Old Tom’ York Gin, which I helped to develop, might well be on my order…
8. Away from the apron, how do you relax and unwind?
I enjoy all sports, watching, that is, especially rugby. I’ve also recently started shooting and fishing, great to get me out in the fresh, country air and also to see the full cycle of life, from field to fork.
9. Do you have any special message for The Star Inn The City patrons who have dined with us over the years?
I’d like to thank them all for visiting us and helping to put The Star Inn The City very much at the forefront of THE top places to visit, when in York. I’d like to think that it continues to improve and to gain awards from the AA and Michelin, confirming the quality of the offer that brings back regulars and attracts visitors. We will also continue to hold Supper Clubs and special events designed for our loyal following. Cheers All!
10. What do you think that the next 10 years have in store for both you and The Star Inn The City?
In another decade, I’ll have been at Harome for 37 years and in York for 20…! I don’t feel like I’m anywhere near to wanting to slow down, even having been a Chef for 44 years. Yes, there’s a challenge or two left in me yet. Watch this space!
