A critically-acclaimed chef has unveiled his team's new menu at a popular County Durham hotel.

Two Michelin star chef James Close, who left Raby Hunt Inn in Summerhouse in January, has announced his new menu, headed by assistant culinary director Adam Molloy, at Rockliffe Hall in Hurworth, near Darlington.

Mr Close was the first chef to be awarded two Michelin stars in the North East for his work at Raby Hunt.

The menu is for the ‘T-Bone steak night,’ which will take place every Thursday starting from May 2.

The menu includes starters such as cheddar cheese soufflé, an ultimate shrimp cocktail, and Wagyu beef carpaccio.

The main dishes include a 9-ounce sirloin steak, 9-ounce ribeye steak, and T-Bone steak – while sides include French fries; green salad, pomegranate and sesame dressing; charred hispi cabbage; two fried eggs; bearnaise/peppercorn/café de Paris butter; potato dauphinoise; and macaroni and cheese.

The menu includes two dessert options in crème caramel with Grand Marnier ice cream, and the rockiest road sundae.

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Speaking on his move to the hotel, Mr Close said: “To join Rockliffe Hall as Culinary Director is an incredible opportunity and the perfect progression to take everything we have developed and achieved at the Raby Hunt to the next level.

“I’m always striving to do better and I’m looking forward to being part of an ambitious team that wants to lead the way in the culinary hotel space and modernise what a luxury country hotel offers its guests across gastronomy, service, and experiences.   

“I’m very thankful to all the people who have believed in us and been involved in our journey so far – repeat diners, guests travelling from further afield, chefs, suppliers, and Michelin, which has played a big part in my career – and we look forward to our continued relationship with all of them.”