Chef Tom Kerridge flogs £270 tickets to posh fish and chip dinner after saying ‘it’s very expensive to run a pub’

Last updated: 2024/08/07 at 4:09 PM

Charlie Watton

3 Min Read

Chef, Tom Kerridge says “it’s very, very hard” to run a pub right now as he flogs £270 tickets to a posh Harrods fish and chips evening.

The 51-year-old is hosting the exclusive event at Kerridge’s Fish & Chips restaurant, which is inside the upmarket London department store.

He’s recently spoken out about the financial pressures affecting pubs – and how “more and more people have less disposable income”, as reported by What’s The Jam.

“It’s not easing at all. We hear about pubs closing all the time, and they’re continuing to close,” he told the publication, MCA.

*Tom Kerridge outside the new Brewers Tap and Grill restaurant in Chelsea. (Picture: Jam Press)*

“Pubs still have monthly bills, you have monthly pay runs and quarterly VAT runs. Most businesses will be trying to operate at a break-even point.”

Guests who fork out £270 for a ticket to the Kerridge-hosted event will be treated to fish and chips accompanied by a pairing of wine.

There is also a cheaper option at £180 a pop if you skip the wine and only have a welcome drink.

Taking place on 18 September, the event will last two hours.

*Posh fish and chips dish being prepped and cooked. (Picture: Jam Press)*

In a description of ‘An Evening with Tom’, it reads: “British meals don’t get more classic than fish and chips.

“For young and old alike, the crunch of batter encasing tender fish together with a chunky chip dipped in ketchup is the ultimate heartwarming nod to comfort and nostalgia.

“Trust in Tom Kerridge to take the UK’s favourite dish to new heights at his eponymous restaurant.

“Join us for ‘An Evening with Tom’ for a menu created by one of the UK’s best-loved chefs.

“We promise you’ll find Britain’s finest, freshest seafood, all ethically caught and hand-selected by local fishmongers with the chef’s signature crisp and gluten-free batter – that will have you salivating.

“And as you’d expect, Kerridge does not neglect the chips, which take two days to be prepared before they arrive at your table, piping hot and triple-cooked alongside a choice of dips.”