CHEF Raymond Blanc is set to close down his Michelin-starred hotel restaurant for 18 months as refurbishment works take place.
Around 150 jobs are believed to have been affected by the temporary closure of Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons, located in Great Milton, Oxfordshire, which will shut its doors in January.
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Both the hotel and its restaurant will close for 18 months, reopening in summer 2027 after its extensive redevelopment.
Blanc, who founded the restaurant in 1984 and went on to achieve two Michelin stars at the site just months after opening, will also transition from his role as chef patron to become a lifetime ambassador.
The company has said that redundancies will be made while the work is carried out, with a source telling the Oxford Mail that 150 jobs would be impacted.
It was reported that a mandatory staff meeting was held yesterday morning to confirm the plans and inform employees.
A spokesperson for the hotel said the site would undergo “visionary redevelopment” next year, adding that it would “work closely” with those whose jobs were affected by the project.
Speaking on his transition to a new position, Blanc said: “Le Manoir has been the canvas of my life’s work, a sanctuary where passion, excellence, and beauty have to come life every single day for over four decades. Together with my extraordinary team, we have built something truly timeless.
“The redevelopment will allow Le Manoir to evolve for the future, to meet the needs of the modern guest while staying true to its soul and values. It is not simply a renovation, but a reinvestment into sustainability, in creativity, and in the spirit of excellence that has defined us.
“As we begin this transformation, my role too will evolve. I remain deeply committed to guiding and nurturing the spirit of Le Manoir, as its founder and lifetime ambassador, with the same love and vision that have shaped it since the very beginning.”
After opening the hotel and restaurant – housed in a 15th-century cottage – in 1984, Blanc reportedly worked for as many as 18 hours every day.
After gaining its two Michelin stars in just months, the restaurant has managed to keep hold of them for the past 41 years.
The restaurant is popular among famous faces, including Kate Moss and Lady Gaga, for its beautifully executed classic French cooking.
While working as a chef there, Blanc also sourced many of his fruits, vegetables and herbs from the site’s extensive gardens.
King Charles, then Prince of Wales, visited the grounds in 2014 and planted a tree.
That very same year, the hotel and restaurant were bought by Belmond, a luxury hotel group.
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Then, four years later, it was bought by the giant corporation LVMH.
Tripadvisor named the hotel second in its Best of the Best Hotels list this year.
The restaurant’s Michelin guide listing states: “You cannot help but fall in love with this iconic country house restaurant.
“As its name suggests, the seasons lead the way: wander the grounds and you’ll discover an amazing array of plants, as well as a 2,500-strong orchard.
“Raymond Blanc’s protégé, Luke Selby, heads up the kitchen and, while the skilfully executed cooking has a classic French base, it also comes with a light, modern touch.
“The multi-course set menus are exquisitely balanced, flavours are intense, combinations are sophisticated and the presentation shows an eye for detail.”
This comes just days after a beloved family-run restaurant announced it was closing due to rising costs.
Little Italy, a favourite for locals in Timperley, Altrincham, revealed it would be forced to close later this month after being hit by soaring bills and rising rents.
Posting online, the owners told fans: “As much as we love what we do, the reality is that it has become too difficult to maintain under these circumstances.”
The announcement has left regulars devastated, with many describing the restaurant as a “local gem”.
The Italian eatery opened in 2006 and quickly built up a loyal customer base.
It became known for hearty portions, friendly service and a warm, family atmosphere.
