Butcher and operator partner on pub purchase
The Oarsman’s Nigel Sutcliffe has teamed up with his local butcher for The Three Tuns.
A Henley butcher and a revered local pub operator have joined forces to acquire The Three Tuns.
Nigel Sutcliffe, co-founder of Truffle Hunting (The Oarsman, The Mutton at Hazeley Heath), has partnered with Barry Wagner, butcher at Gabriel Machin, to acquire the former Brakspear site. It is due to open in May.
The part 13th century, 34-cover pub, which sits next door to the butchers, will undergo a light refurbishment and reopen as a space for the local community to enjoy top-quality butcher’s cuts and ale.
"Gabriel Machin is such an institution in Henley, selling the highest quality cuts of meat and fish, and Barry (above left) is such a well-loved and well-respected figure in the community," says Sutcliffe (above right).
Who's leading the pub?
The Three Tuns will be run by the team from The Oarsman in Marlow, with the kitchen headed up by executive chef Scott Smith and the front-of-house run by general manager Patrycja Gadja.
Starters will include Gabriel Machin Oak Smoked Salmon with Celeriac Remoulade; Ham Hock Terrine with Piccalilli and Fennel & Nduja Cambridge Sausages. The mains will be determined by Wagner's butcher counter and will include a selection of meats and fish cooked on the robata grill.
The new menu will sit alongside a Burger Shed at the back, serving burgers to enjoy at the pub or take away.
"I’ve always loved the idea of buying the pub next door, using Barry’s incredible produce combined with Scott’s talents in the kitchen to create something special," adds Sutcliffe. "Our aim is for The Three Tuns to be a beloved space for the local community to enjoy great food, wine and ales in a warm and welcoming environment."
You may also be interested in…
