Steven Smith has made an impressive impact on the national culinary scene in just two years as chef-patron at Freemasons at Wiswell. Steven, born in nearby Blackburn, learned his trade in some of the North’s top establishments before going solo in this quaint Lancashire village and creating a true gastronomic experience in a stylish yet homely pub setting.

Steven demonstrates assured technique and innovation in his modern adaptation of traditional favourites. He said: “We believe this is how dining should be. There are lots of places in our region where you can go and eat good home cooking, and a few places where you can experience fine dining. We want to create an exceptional dining experience, but without the formality that is sometimes found.”

Industry recognition has been quick to arrive, with Steven’s Best Newcomer award in The Publican awards and Freemasons’ ranking in the top 15 gastropubs in the UK. He was invited to cook alongside some of the country’s star names at the London Restaurant Festival and has been selected as one of eight ‘visionaries’ in the nationwide Great 8 series of charity dinners.