Tom s Kitchen at Somerset House : Eating Drinking : Somerset House

Michelin-starred chef Tom Aikens restaurant mirrors the concept of Tom s Kitchen Chelsea. The menu offers the freshest British produce; highlights include Daylesford 7 hour Confit Lamb with Balsamic Onions and Mash and Sea Bass Meuni re with Black Olives and Tomatoes. Desserts include Chocolate Hot Pot with Pistachio Ice-cream, Baked Alaska and the Tom s Kitchen Cheese Board served with Quince Paste and Biscuits.

Tom has been cooking since the age of 16. Born in 1970 in Norwich, he was inspired by his father and grandfather who were both wine merchants. He tagged along on their exploratory trips throughout France sampling the best of the different regions have to offer.

He was hooked. After studying at Norwich City College Hotel School with his identical twin brother, Rob, who now works with him at Tom s Kitchen, he forged a career in cooking at legendary establishments that included Pierre Koffman s Tante Claire as it won its third star, and London hotspot, Pied Terre, when it gained a second Michelin star, cementing his status as one of Britain s most exciting chefs.

His own place soon followed. In April 2003, Tom Aikens Restaurant opened in Chelsea and has since garnered rave reviews and accolades, including a Michelin star since 2004. The restaurant closed for refurbishment in July and re-opened in January 2012. www.tomaikens.co.uk

There have also been numerous TV appearances, from popular weekend cooking show, Saturday Kitchen, to Great British Menu and Market Kitchen.

Tom lives in London and when he s not in the kitchen, he s running or cycling (or both).