It just had to be a madcap party for celebrity chef Andrew Nutter to celebrate 20 years of his restaurant over in Rochdale. And guests arriving at Nutters restaurant for his kaleidoscope-themed event were greeted by a band of colourful clowns as well as crazy party games including tenpin bowling with bottles of Grey Goose vodka, and welly-wanging across the front lawn at the majestic Norden setting. The dress code was also kaleidoscope – and guests including Key 103 DJ Chelsea Spokes and fashion designer Nadine Merabi were getting into the spirit in their vibrant glam dresses.
The fairground reception included some of Andrews most famous dishes – including his black pudding wontons and seared scallops – before guests were led inside for a gourmet meal, capped off by a trip to Nutter’s own “sweet shop” created for the event. It was also an emotional night for Andrew, celebrating the occasion with family, friends and loyal customers – many of whom remember the first night he opened for business, as a fresh-faced 21 year old.
That first eaterie was called The French Connection at the site of the old New Inn Pub in Norden, but within two years, and Andrew’s profile already on the rise, the family decided to change it to Nutters. After ten years there the site had becoming too small to cope with demand, and they moved down the road to the Wolstenholme Manor site on Edenfield Road where the restaurant has been ever since.
Andrew told guests: “I’m pinching myself we’re still here 20 years on.” There was a double celebration for Andrew’s mum and dad – Jean and Rodney – who were also celebrating their 45th wedding anniversary. But there was no rest for Andrew after putting on his Saturday night feast – for on Sunday there was a second celebration dinner to cope with demand from diners. Guests there included Radio One DJ Nick Grimshaw dining with family.
The anniversary celebrations come in the midst of a stellar twelve months for Andrew, who was crowned Manchester Chef of the Year at the annual Manchester Food and Drink Festival Awards in October.
He’s also hit the headlines after catering the high profile wedding of TV presenter Melanie Sykes, as well as hosting the 40th birthday party for comedy superstar Peter Kay, where guests included Take That star Gary Barlow and TV host Paddy McGuinness.