TWO speciality cooks with an eye for the decidedly unusual are bringing a novel flavour to the business of eating out. Not to mention a highly irregular means of settling the bill.

A 15th century former inn at Lyonshall, closed almost half a century ago, is now home to Robert Tolhurst and his wife, Hope Yang and between them they are providing a unique dining experience for those looking for something that little bit different.

The deal is simply this: Hope and her sous-chef husband Robert open the door to their booked guests, serve up a traditional Chinese meal in their half-timbered home, then boldly leave it to the diners to decide what they pay for on the night.

“We’ve been doing pop-up dinners at the Old Maidenhead since last October,” says Robert. “Hopes cooks the meal, people get authentic food and the USP is that people pay what they want to pay.”

Hope’s Kitchen throws out the invitation: “Bring friends or make new ones around the dinner table in the heart of Lyonshall, whilst you enjoy the authentic flavours of a traditional Chinese meal.”

Their welcome promises: “A relaxed and intimate dining experience where you decide what you pay on the night.”

Both chefs prepare the feast in their kitchen at Old Maidenhead House, and while soft drinks are provided, partakers are free to ‘Bring your own Booze’. At Kington Festive Food Festival, Robert and Hope gave a taste of what Hope’s Kitchen is about with their first stall demonstrating the art of cooking with bamboo steamers.

Hope is also happy to introduce those interested in the regional variations of Chinese cuisine with special cooking classes at her home. She will teach her students how to source and prepare ingredients and cook six varied dishes. The four-hour classes are geared for a party of between four to six people.

For more information about Hope’s Kitchen call 01544 340591 or go to Oldmaidenhead@gmail.com