Nestled in the heart of Bath, Emberwood is the latest fine dining gem to grace the Grade I listed Francis Hotel in Queens Square. The restaurant’s name carries a captivating story, blending a culinary passion for open-fire cooking with a heartfelt tribute to one of Bath’s architectural pioneers.
The “Ember” in Emberwood highlights the restaurant’s unique open-fire kitchen, where diners can watch chefs expertly prepare dishes over glowing embers. This theatre of flames turns each meal into a sensory spectacle—steaks sizzling, oysters steaming, and the gentle flicker of firelight animating the kitchen. It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience.
The “Wood” pays homage to John Wood, an 18th-century local visionary who shaped much of Bath’s iconic skyline. Son of a butcher from Twerton, John Wood’s genius is evident in landmarks such as The Circus, South Parade, and Queens Square itself—the very location from which Emberwood now serves its guests. This layering of history and heritage enriches the dining experience.
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At the launch party on May 14, I was captivated by the restaurant’s tasteful design—gleaming white marble surfaces, luxurious William Morris-inspired cushions, and elegant chandeliers casting a soft, warm glow throughout the space. But the true star was the open kitchen, where I gained a fresh appreciation for the artistry behind Emberwood’s signature canapés.
These delicate bites offered a tantalizing preview of the menu, featuring everything from fresh oysters to perfectly cooked medium-rare steak and roasted asparagus delicately topped with cheese. The asparagus, simple yet addictive, was a personal highlight. While oysters were a novel experience for me—something crossed off my bucket list—they weren’t quite to my taste.
Desserts were equally enchanting, served from a cart laden with ornate, bite-sized sweets that were almost too beautiful to eat. These exquisite treats delighted both the eyes and the palate, capping off an extraordinary evening.
Emberwood combines stylish decor, historic reverence, and innovative open-fire cooking to create an unforgettable dining experience. It pays a fitting tribute to its namesake’s legacy of crafting the splendid and sublime, while standing out as a modern culinary beacon in Bath.
Open seven days a week from noon to 11 pm, Emberwood awaits at 5 Queens Square, Bath. Part of the Francis Hotel, it offers not just meals but an invitation to immerse yourself in the city’s rich heritage and vibrant food scene.