Martel Smith, of No 3 York Place restaurant in Leeds, has bought The Dawnay Arms in Newton on Ouse near York for £500,000.
Smith bought the pub with his partner, Kerry Ward, from auction. It dates back to 1772 and was a pub with rooms until two years ago when it fell into disrepair.
Smith will invest £100,000 in a refurbishment of the site which has gardens towards the river and the potential for 80 covers.
He said, "The style will be rustic in contrast to No 3 York Place in Leeds which I will continue to keep a close eye on with Sous Chef Simon Silver." The British menu will include Whitby Haddock Risotto and Steak and Kidney Pudding.