A CUMBRIAN-born chef and the protégé of a three time Michelin Star winner has announced the opening date of his new, solo restaurant.

Tom Barnes, who worked alongside award-winning chef Simon Rogan for 12 years, is opening his own establishment in spring 2024.

Skof by Tom Barnes will open in the NOMA neighbourhood of Manchester on Wednesday May 29.

Team Skof said: “We're going to be shaking things up, bringing something a little different to our corner of Manchester. Expect a warm welcome and surprising flavours, whether you’re opting for our four-course lunch menu or our tasting menu (which comes in two different lengths).

“It’s been a long journey so far, and we’re so grateful to everyone who has supported us over the last year. We can’t wait to give you a little taste of what we’ve been working on.

“We’ve opened our reservations diary until Saturday 14th September, so get booking.”

The restaurant will open for lunch from Thursday to Saturday at noon until 1:30pm and for dinner between Wednesday and Saturday from 6:30pm to 8pm.

The sample menus include Roasted Sladesdown Duck served with peach leaf and celeriac, Grilled Orkney Scallops with spring vegetables, fried oyster and dulse seaweed, and Miso Custard with woods mushroom and truffle.

Tom joined Simon's team at L'Enclume in 2011 and apprenticed under Duncan Collinge at The Lakeside Hotel, working as a chef in some of the best restaurants in the world.

The Barrovian won the Great British Menu in 2020, was head chef at Rogan & Co when it received a Michelin star, and executive chef at L’Enclume when it gained its third star.

Skof will be owned and operated by Tom but will form part of the next iteration of UMBEL Restaurants, where the group will support talented individuals in opening their own restaurants and businesses.