One of Solihull's best know restaurants is closing - but you'll still be able to enjoy their food

Toffs, the esteemed restaurant in Solihull, is set to close its doors.

However, fans of Rob Palmer’s culinary creations, don’t have to worry.

The award-winning chef, Rob Palmer, has unveiled his new culinary adventure in partnership with Hogarths, a well-known luxury hotel in Solihull.

Since 2022, Rob has been impressing food enthusiasts at Toffs with his unique blend of modern and traditional cooking techniques, all while emphasising seasonal and sustainable ingredients.

Now, Rob will be taking his skills - along with his talented team - to the lovely surroundings of Hogarths Hotel - the acclaimed hotel, wedding, conference and events venue nestled in 27 acres of countryside in Dorridge.

Rob said: “I’m delighted to be joining Hogarths, a name synonymous with luxury and outstanding quality. Since launching Toffs, I have received such warm and encouraging support from the community and I am proud of everything we have achieved.

“It’s now time for the next step and a new challenge, and I look forward to showcasing Toffs at Hogarths, combining two shining examples of Solihull’s hospitality scene.”

As part of his role, Rob will manage the hotel’s entire kitchen staff, infusing his unique style into the popular Brasserie Menu, Afternoon Tea Lounge Menu, and Sunday Lunch offerings.

The revamped Hogarths brasserie menu will be available from May 28th, serving both lunch and dinner.

Rob plans to relocate Toffs to Hogarths, with the grand opening of Toffs at Hogarths, a fresh fine dining experience, scheduled for September - no date is yet mentioned.

He departs Toffs on a high note, having recently earned three AA Rosettes, a prestigious honour bestowed upon only 16 restaurants nationwide this year.

Rob added: “Guests can look forward to the same ethos that Toffs has become known for, with different menu offerings to suit any occasion as well as a brasserie option.

“Hogarths’ three counties menu aligns beautifully with my passion for British and ethically sourced produce, and I will be crafting an offering that reflects that, giving diners a truly memorable experience.”

Forging this new venture are owners Helena and Andy Hogarth, who are marking the 20th anniversary of their successful hotel business.

From a luxury eight-bedroom and restaurant establishment, it has expanded to a 49-room venue, with an additional 11 rooms due for completion in July 2024.

The venue hosts a variety of events, including luxury weddings and afternoon tea services.

Helena said: “We have been well aware of Rob’s success and are avid admirers of his flair for food and service, as well as his personality and passion for British cooking. Our Three Counties menu is something we are extremely proud of, celebrating the best produce from Worcestershire, Warwickshire and Herefordshire.

“This enables us to offer guests something a little different every time they visit, as the flavours change with the seasons and mirror the wonderful landscape on our doorstep.”

Rob, who previously earned Solihull’s first Michelin Star at another hotel restaurant, offers a luxurious Toffs menu featuring dishes like asparagus with smoked roe and wild garlic, and cod, scallop and lobster with salsify, chervil and Champagne.

Helena added: “The decision to work together with Rob felt like a natural step to take, to really drive our menus forward and bring together our combined knowledge of the industry to offer a further enhanced experience to our loyal and new customers."

When will Chef Rob Palmer be joining Hogarths hotel?

Toffs will cease operations on Saturday, May 4, with Rob and his team relocating to Hogarths Hotel, Solihull, on Tuesday, May 7.

Existing restaurant vouchers can be used until this date and will be honoured at Toffs at Hogarths from September.

Customers with restaurant bookings and deposits at Toffs will be contacted by the team for further instructions.

Guests are invited to visit Toffs before its closure to get a glimpse of what’s to come at Hogarths.