Plates Farm: A Michelin-Starred Vegan Retreat in Rural France
Nestled in Lectoure, a serene French town equidistant from Bordeaux and Toulouse, a new chapter has unfolded for this historic region, traditionally known for pilgrims and artisans. Plates Farm, a peaceful bed and breakfast, now serves exquisite plant-based cuisine to a discerning clientele, marking a significant evolution for the area.
Plates Farm, the brainchild of siblings Kirk and Keeley Haworth and Keeley's husband, Matt, launched earlier this year. Following the success of their Michelin-starred vegan establishment in Shoreditch, London, the team has meticulously recreated their groundbreaking culinary ethos amidst the picturesque Gascony hills. Their journey into plant-based eating was profoundly influenced by Kirk's battle with Lyme disease in 2016, where adopting a vegan diet significantly improved his health, reigniting his passion for food creation. This personal transformation ultimately led to the opening of Plates, initially a food studio, which quickly gained recognition and a Michelin star, attracting high-profile admirers such as Jessica Chastain and Natalie Portman.
The menu at Plates Farm mirrors the grounded, yet refined, approach of its London counterpart. Guests can savor unique dishes like a plant-based version of Lancashire hotpot, crafted with on-site grown vegetables, alongside decadent desserts such as poached peach French toast and parsley and fennel pancakes with vegan ricotta. Keeley emphasizes a focus on richness, texture, and earthiness in their recipe development, ensuring that every dish satisfies as deeply as traditional meat and fish alternatives. All meals are prepared in-house by a rotating team of chefs from both the farm and the Shoreditch restaurant, utilizing a blend of farm-grown produce and local ingredients. The property itself embodies understated luxury, boasting a gleaming pool, a hot plunge, a modern gym, and offers wellness activities like Swedish massages and outdoor yoga. The barn kitchen serves as the vibrant heart of the retreat, where guests can enjoy local organic wine while observing the chefs at work. With plans for a new Eurostar route to Bordeaux in 2026 and the option to rent the entire château for group bookings, Plates Farm is just beginning its journey, constantly striving to bring innovative and fresh experiences to its patrons.
Plates Farm represents a harmonious blend of culinary innovation, personal well-being, and respect for nature. By demonstrating that exquisite dining can be achieved through plant-based ingredients, it inspires a broader appreciation for sustainable living and healthy eating. This venture not only offers a unique gastronomic experience but also champions a lifestyle that enriches both the individual and the environment, proving that conscious choices can lead to extraordinary outcomes and a more vibrant future.