Raymond Blanc Launches eighth Brasserie Blanc in Winchester

Celebrated Chef Raymond Blanc OBE will launch his eighth Brasserie Blanc in Winchester on 14th March 2008. The 140-cover French Brasserie & Bar will be located on Jewry Street, next to the Theatre Royal and will have a warm and stylish interior with banquettes, a terrace and balcony seating 30 during the summer months and the lively, welcoming ambiance for which Brasserie Blanc is renowned.

Raymond Blanc is widely acknowledged as one of the world's finest chefs and has held two Michelin stars at Le Manoir aux Quat' Saisons for the last 22 years. Regarded as one of the most respected restaurateurs in the industry, his restaurant group, Brasserie Blanc celebrated its 10th Anniversary last year. Raymond Blanc completed the critically acclaimed BBC television series 'The Restaurant' in 2007.

Raymond Blanc said: "Winchester is a beautiful and historic city, with a thriving business community and tourist industry. I am really looking forward to being part of it. In an area so rich in high quality producers and growers, I am very keen to add ingredients of local provenance to my menu. "

Raymond Blanc has introduced an exciting menu offering a selection of classic and modern French dishes inspired by Raymond's childhood meals, made by his mother to include: Guinea fowl rillettes & soused vegetables, Poulet aux morilles, braised leeks and Croustillant ice creams..

Raymond and the Brasserie Blanc team are currently meeting with local suppliers around the county to add a Hampshire flavour to the menu.

The wine list is predominantly French, featuring wines sourced and bought directly from young, creative wine makers in various regions of France. The Dine with Wine menu offers a two-course lunch or dinner - £11.50 lunch/£15 dinner - and includes a glass of wine. The Brasserie will be open from 12 noon until 2.45pm and for dinner from 5.30pm. It is also open all day Saturday and Sunday.

Brasserie Blanc, 19-20 Jewry Street, Winchester, Hampshire, SO23 8RZ,
Tel 01962 810870 www.brasserieblanc.com.