Native, the brainchild of Ivan Tisdall-Downes and Imogen Davis, has evolved from its street food origins in Covent Garden to a full-fledged sustainable restaurant. Relocated from London to the picturesque Netherwood Estate in Worcestershire, this unique dining experience promises a seamless blend of rustic charm and fine dining.
Ivan Tisdall-Downes, an experienced chef with a diverse culinary background, and Imogen Davis, the business director, started Native with a street food stall in 2016. Their early menu featured unconventional dishes like pigeon kebab and squirrel lasagne. Over time, Native transitioned to a more refined dining style, culminating in their dream of a farm-to-table restaurant.
At Native, the menu is dictated by the land. The restaurant offers a tasting menu-only format, with a choice between a four-course meal for £65 or a seven-course experience for £105. The dishes, which can change daily, highlight the freshest local ingredients. Sample offerings include a ‘regeneration risotto,’ Herdwick lamb with Wye Valley asparagus, and blackcurrant leaf madeleines. Sundays feature a special nose-to-tail roast menu for £45.
Native’s beverage program is as thoughtfully curated as its food. The wine list focuses on organic, biodynamic, natural, and low-intervention wines, available by the glass, bottle, or as part of a pairing. The restaurant also offers signature cocktails inspired by their kitchen garden, along with beers from Two Tribes Brewery, kombuchas, and foraged teas.
The restaurant’s rustic, stripped-back interior remains largely unchanged from its predecessor, Pensons. The dining area accommodates 32 guests, with an additional 14-seat private dining room upstairs. Two adjacent bedrooms are available for overnight stays, with plans to expand this to seven rooms to enhance accessibility for travellers.
Native’s commitment to sustainability is evident in every aspect of its operations. From sourcing ingredients through regenerative farming to implementing comprehensive composting practices, the restaurant aims to give back more than it takes. This dedication to sustainability ensures that each meal is not only delicious but also environmentally responsible.
Native’s relaunch in Worcestershire marks a new chapter in its journey, blending sustainability with culinary excellence. Whether you’re a local foodie or a visitor, Native offers a dining experience that is as ethical as it is unforgettable. Visit Native’s website for more information and to book your table at this remarkable restaurant.
