News / Josh Eggleton

Major transformation plans announced for acclaimed restaurant

By Ellie Pipe  Friday Jul 22, 2022

The Pony & Trap team have revealed ambitious plans that will see the restaurant reimagined and reopened with an event venue, cookery school and kitchen garden.

Former Michelin starred chef Josh Eggleton and his sister, Holly, have revealed details of their vision for the highly acclaimed dining destination in Chew Magna, as well as its new name, The Pony Chew Valley.

They are launching a Kickstarter crowdfunding campaign in a bid to raise £100,000 to complete their vision.

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Josh, who, along with Holly, also owns the Pony Bistro on North Street, says they are looking to “create food experiences that bring people together in a place to inspire joy, family connection and collaboration”.

Josh and Holly Eggleton have completely reimagined the restaurant formerly known as the Pony & Trap – image: Emily Pearman Studio

“The Pony Chew Valley has undergone a complete physical transformation and this is the final stretch before we reopen with a brand new vision for our original space,” says Josh.

“Every element of the menus will be grown locally or have a provenance which is traceable, putting food education and sustainability at the heart of the experience. We will be opening the restaurant and gardens Wednesday to Friday for guests to enjoy a menu that reflects the land and waters that surrounds the Pony Chew Valley.

“We will also present special events throughout the month, such as a fish and shellfish dinner, a steak night, or a Sunday roast. All of which invites you to experience dishes down to ingredient level.”

Josh and Holly hope to “create food experiences that bring people together in a place to inspire joy, family connection and collaboration” – image: Emily Pearman Studio

The Kickstart money will be used to complete the building of the new venue spaces. People who donate could have a chance to host a private event or dine at the new Pony Chew Valley, secure a private dining experience from award-winning Bristol chefs, enjoy being cooked for at home by the Pony Chew Valley team and more.

Restaurant dining, weddings and event hire are expected to open in September this year, with the cookery school opening later into the autumn or winter.

Early access to bookings can be made through the Kickstarter crowdfunder.

The Pony Chew Valley team hope to raise £100,000 to help complete their vision for the new venue – photo: Ian Bryant

Main photo: Ian Bryant

Read more: Pony Bistro: ‘A flawless next chapter for the Pony & Trap’ – restaurant review 

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