The Ormskirk restaurant – currently listed on Restaurant‘s list of the top 100 places to eat in the UK – will reopen in November with a new chef’s table and an updated menu structure, as Allen looks to “reach new heights”.
“The improvements are part of our commitment to positioning sō–lō as one of the leading dining destinations in Lancashire,” says Allen, who launched the restaurant with partner and front-of-house manager Mag Duclos in 2021.
“This marks a really exciting stage in sō–lō’s – and our own – journey. The time is right to invest further in the business, enhance the offering and build upon the reputation we’ve established.”
Allen says the restaurant’s relaxed, ingredient-led approach will remain, but will be paired with a “more modern, crisp, fresh new look”.
The food offering will be redefined, with more flexible menu formats, including shorter and extended tasting options. “We’ll also offer a more casual tasting-style experience that showcases outstanding ingredients, our passion for produce and imaginative dishes,” he adds.
sō–lō will continue to serve its à la carte lunch and Sunday lunch menus.
Born in Yorkshire, Allen previously worked with Martin Burge at Whatley Manor and Daniel Clifford at Midsummer House. He has also led Michelin-starred kitchens including Launceston Place in London, The Wild Rabbit in Oxfordshire, and The Flitch of Bacon in Essex.