Nestled in the picturesque Elkstone Studios just south of Cheltenham, LARDON is the highly anticipated new restaurant opened by the creators behind the acclaimed KNEAD Bakery and the Cotswolds butcher chain, Jesse Smith.
Since its grand opening on Monday, June 22, LARDON has experienced tremendous success, welcoming over 1,000 diners in its first week alone, according to co-owner Kris Biggs.
The restaurant’s menu draws on vibrant Mediterranean influences from Tuscany, the Basque region, and Provence, spotlighting the rustic flavors of wood-fired cooking. Diners can start with delights like rosemary and smoked sea salt focaccia (£5) or Jamón Ibérico (£13), before moving on to main courses such as wood-fired cod with butterbean ragu and chorizo (£21) or lamb rump with broad beans (£25).
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Visiting on a pleasant Wednesday afternoon, I found that LARDON’s relaxed outdoor terrace, shielded by a parasol, immediately transported me to a sunny holiday vibe. Despite the restaurant opening amid a Gloucestershire heatwave peaking near 40°C, the 23°C day I experienced was perfect for an indulgent lunchtime escape.
The atmosphere is effortlessly sophisticated yet unpretentious. Even midweek, neighboring tables enjoyed bottles of wine leisurely, adding to the sense of luxury without pretension. The welcoming staff enhanced the experience further, patiently explaining the small plates concept and recommending a salad or ‘extras’ to complement main dishes.
I chose the pork belly accompanied by Morcilla (Spanish blood sausage) and Sweetheart cabbage in a rich roasting jus (£19), adding a side of smoked garlic and rosemary potatoes (£7). Sitting back, I soaked in the charming surroundings: Elkstone Studios feels tucked away from the A417 hustle, surrounded by boutique shops, wellness studios, and even a Padel hall—all set against the idyllic Cotswolds landscape.
LARDON strikes a fine balance—posh but approachable. The casual buzz and friendly chatter at nearby tables created an inviting ambiance, reminiscent of those cosy ‘Overheard in Waitrose’ moments, which only added to the warmth of the visit.
When my food arrived, it exceeded expectations. The tender pork belly paired perfectly with the crispy, flavorful Morcilla, while the cabbage offered a surprisingly delicious complement I couldn’t leave behind. The smoked potatoes were generously portioned and beautifully seasoned, though too filling to finish entirely.
My hour-long stay felt leisurely and restorative, a perfect break from the daily grind. Before leaving, I caught up with Kris Biggs, who shared his excitement about the incredible opening week. “The atmosphere and ambience have been second to none,” he said. “After nine months of hard work, it’s amazing to offer people a culinary escape where they can forget everything for a couple of hours, enjoy great wine, and savor exceptional food.”
Kris emphasized that while both he and fellow co-founder John Hawes have Michelin-star backgrounds, LARDON focuses on delivering premium quality at accessible prices. “We don’t know any different than meticulous attention to detail and high flavors, but we want it to be affordable—not something that breaks the bank.”
Open daily from 8am to 8pm for breakfast, lunch, and drinks (Sunday to Thursday), LARDON also offers dinner service on Fridays and Saturdays with extended hours until 11pm. Visit LARDON at Elkstone Studios to experience a taste of Europe right in the heart of the Cotswolds.