Meet Andy, Head Chef at The Fuzzy Duck

At The Fuzzy Duck in Armscote, our Head Chef, Andy combines years of experience from renowned establishments to craft a menu that prioritises guest preferences and showcases signature dishes like our renowned Scotch Egg. With a commitment to sustainability, we source ingredients from responsible local suppliers, ensuring that every dish reflects our dedication to quality and tradition. Join us as we explore the creative process and culinary philosophy that drives our kitchen, celebrating the rich flavours and seasonal delights that define dining at The Fuzzy Duck.

Please tell us about your culinary background and how you started in the culinary world.

I have always wanted to be a chef throughout school. I took an apprenticeship at the Burlington Hotel in Birmingham, where I studied and worked diligently. I spent six years there, learning the ins and outs of various kitchen sections. After that, I moved to The Old Falcon in Stratford, where I culminated my experience as the acting head chef. A brief stint in Cornwall allowed me to gain valuable experience in seafood, soaking up the best culinary exploits that the South West had to offer. I then returned to Stratford, taking a sous chef position at The Kings in Chipping Campden. After two years, I moved to The Fuzzy Duck as sous chef for five years, later transitioning to Feldon Valley. In 2022, I proudly returned to The Fuzzy Duck as the Head Chef.

Who or what has been your biggest inspiration in your culinary journey?

As a younger lad, the TV chefs of the time were my biggest inspirations – Brian Turner, Gary Rhodes, and Keith Floyd. Their passion for cooking immensely influenced my culinary journey.

Andy’s Culinary Philosophy

How would you describe your culinary philosophy?

I always design menus based on what our guests want, not just what I might like to cook personally. Being in the Cotswolds, I strive to use fresh local produce, which can be a challenge, but we make it work most of the time.

What are the core principles or values that guide your cooking?

I believe I am an honest chef. I stick to core traditions and focus on delivering high-quality dishes without trying to reinvent the wheel. My approach aligns with our commitment to providing the best dining experience in Armscote.

Signature Dishes and Ingredients

What are some of your signature dishes at The Fuzzy Duck?

One of our standout offerings includes our Scotch Egg, presented in various delightful forms. Homemade bread has also been a staple on our menu for years, with many guests complimenting our daily baked mini loaves.

Are there any ingredients that you particularly love to work with? Why?

My favourite season is summer, as there is so much to work with regarding both fruits and vegetables. Asparagus season is always exciting, and using Wye Valley Produce adds wonderful flavours to our dishes at The Fuzzy Duck.

Creative Process

Can you walk us through your creative process when developing a new dish?

I draw inspiration from everywhere – cookbooks, social media, and what my peers are doing. I also involve my team, who have diverse culinary experiences. The seasons play a crucial role in our menu design; a balmy September encourages lighter dishes, while cold, wet Junes mean hearty options stay on the menu longer.

How do you balance innovation with tradition in your cooking?

Sustainability and sourcing are vital to my culinary philosophy.

Sustainability and Sourcing

How important is sustainability to your cooking, and how do you ensure your ingredients are sustainably sourced?

I work closely with our suppliers to ensure the sustainability of our produce. Many suppliers aspire to work with The Fuzzy Duck, but we only collaborate with responsible, passionate, and environmentally conscious businesses.

Do you have any local suppliers or farmers that you prefer to work with?

We proudly partner with Todenham Manor Farm for meats, New Wave Seafoods, and A.M. Bailey for fruit and veg, supporting local agriculture in the Cotswolds.

Challenges and Rewards

What has been the most challenging aspect of being a head chef?

Staffing challenges remain significant. Finding and retaining good people is crucial to maintaining our high standards at The Fuzzy Duck.

What do you find most rewarding about your job?

The recognition we receive from happy guests is the ultimate reward for our hard work and dedication to creating memorable dining experiences.

Kitchen Culture and Team

How do you foster a positive and productive kitchen environment?

We work together like a family, looking out for each other. Everyone pitches in, ensuring a friendly atmosphere in the kitchen, often accompanied by music. However, we shift into serious mode during service time to provide our guests with the best experience at The Fuzzy Duck.

What do you look for when building your team of chefs and kitchen staff?

I seek engaging, skilled, and happy individuals who are passionate about cooking.

Future Goals and Trends

What are your future goals for The Fuzzy Duck's menu and culinary direction?

I plan to continue along the same path – if it ain't broke, don't fix it. Our commitment to quality and local produce is unwavering.

Are there any emerging food trends or techniques that you're excited about?

While we don't tend to follow fads, I am particularly excited about developing the fresh fish element of our menu. We'll keep doing what we do well!

Personal Favourites

What's your favourite dish to cook at home for friends and family?

A good Sunday roast is my go-to for family gatherings, accompanied by a naughty chocolate tart and clotted cream for dessert.

Do you have a guilty pleasure food that people might be surprised by?

I absolutely love a really good burger! One of my favourites is from The Hub in St. Ives.

To explore our full range of offerings and discover the culinary delights waiting for you, be sure to check out our menu pages for a closer look at what we serve. To make your visit even more special, book a room with us.

The Fuzzy Duck

Ilmington Road, Armscote, Stratford-upon-Avon,
Warwickshire, CV37 8DD
01608 682635

Unwind Midweek at Our Warwickshire Pub with Rooms: The Fuzzy Duck Experience

Nestled on the outskirts of the idyllic Cotswolds, our Warwickshire pub restaurant with rooms, The Fuzzy Duck, offers an unparalleled midweek getaway. For many of us, the hustle of daily life seldom breaks to allow moments of leisure and relaxation. Recognising this, we’ve crafted an oasis that serves as a respite from the ordinary and offers a hub of culinary delights, elegant interiors, and a serene atmosphere. Our pub restaurant reflects the essence of celebration, providing a warm, welcoming space to unwind, celebrate occasions, or enjoy a spontaneous meal amidst a pretty Warwickshire village.

As you delve into the heart of our establishment, prepare to be enthralled by the gastronomic journey that awaits. Our menu, rich in culinary delights, epitomises the best of pub restaurants Warwickshire has to offer. Each room in our pub with rooms Warwickshire is meticulously designed, offering a blend of comfort and elegance, ensuring your stay is nothing short of memorable. Beyond dining, our selection of beverages, including handpicked wines and artisan spirits, promises to quench any thirst. Coupled with our pub garden, The Fuzzy Duck experience is designed to create lasting memories, whether you’re seeking a midweek escape or a momentary retreat from the world.

Gastronomy at Its Best

At The Fuzzy Duck, we take pride in offering a culinary experience that captures the essence of the Cotswolds with every dish served. Our commitment to quality and the environment is evident as we partner with the finest local suppliers, ensuring that each meal not only tantalises your taste buds but also supports sustainable practices.

Sample Menus

We invite you to explore our diverse range of menus, from our main menu to special vegan and Sunday options and even delightful selections for our younger guests with the kids menu. Each menu is crafted to reflect the innovative spirit of our kitchen, offering everything from traditional fish and chips to sophisticated Champagne dinners.

Exceptional Dishes in a Relaxed Atmosphere

Our Gastro Kitchen is a haven for food enthusiasts seeking a unique dining experience. Here, authenticity meets modern culinary techniques. The relaxed yet vibrant atmosphere is perfect for any occasion, from a romantic date to a family gathering, and it is complemented by creative cocktails and a comprehensive selection of beers and wines. At The Fuzzy Duck, every meal is more than just food; it’s a gastronomic adventure designed to make every midweek dining experience memorable and uplifting.

OUR ROOMs

At The Fuzzy Duck, each of our rooms is a unique sanctuary named after various duck species. We offer a range of rooms, from the elegance of the Super-King-sized bed in our crown jewel room, complete with a freestanding roll-top bath, to the cosy and stylish bunkbed room, perfect for friends sharing a unique getaway.

Each room boasts ensuite facilities with modern amenities to ensure your stay is as comfortable as possible. Whether you choose the luxurious room with a contemporary ensuite bathroom and a generous king-sized bed or the harmonious double bedroom with well-equipped facilities, you’re in for a treat. Our commitment to luxury is evident in the small details, such as our own plush Baylis & Harding toiletries provided for your pampering.

Though varying in size, our rooms maintain a standard of comfort and style. Even our smaller rooms, like the Indian Runner, are designed to maximise comfort; they may be compact but are fully functional and come with creative solutions.

Quench Your Thirst

At The Fuzzy Duck, we take pride in offering diverse beverages that cater to traditional tastes and contemporary preferences. Our bar is a treasure trove of local and international drinks, ensuring something special for everyone.

Traditional and Contemporary Drinks

Discover the world of beverages at The Fuzzy Duck, where traditional drinks meet contemporary innovations. Each drink is carefully crafted to suit every palate, from classic ales to inventive cocktails. Whether you’re in the mood for a cold pint of beer from our local Cotswolds breweries or a sophisticated cocktail, our drinks menu has you covered.

Local Breweries and Cocktails

Our commitment to supporting local businesses shines through our extensive selection of beers, ales, and ciders, all sourced from local breweries around the Cotswolds. For those with a penchant for mixology, our cocktail menu offers a delightful exploration of flavours. Our skilled mixologists blend the finest spirits with fresh fruits and herbs to create visually stunning and delicious libations.

At The Fuzzy Duck, quenching your thirst is not just about drinking; i’s about experiencing the rich tapestry of flavours that only our carefully curated beverages can provide.

Take a break

The Fuzzy Duck is a testament to the transformative power of a midweek getaway. It seamlessly blends culinary excellence with the tranquillity of the Warwickshire and Cotswold countryside. Through our diverse range of offerings—from thoughtfully designed rooms reflecting the local wildlife to carefully curated gastronomic experiences—it promises and delivers an escape that rejuvenates the spirit.

Each bite, sip, and stay is crafted with the intention of creating lasting memories, offering a respite from the rigours of daily life and an opportunity to indulge in the simple pleasures that define the essence of a true getaway. Recognising the unique charm that midweek dining and stay provide, The Fuzzy Duck invites you to break away from routine and immerse yourself in a world where time slows down and every moment is savoured.

It’s not just about the food or the rooms; it’s about how the experience as a whole uplifts your mood and enriches your week. With personalised service and a commitment to quality, a visit to The Fuzzy Duck isn’t just recommended; it’s a necessary indulgence.

Book now to ensure your stay of relaxation and gourmet delight, where every visit promises

something new to discover.