The Lucky Onion story

There was once an old, crusty onion sitting on a kitchen shelf at the Wheatsheaf Inn. The chef legend, Antony, who was then the head chef kept it because it brought him good luck in service. A new owner walked in and threw the onion in the bin. All hell broke out. Clients complained, people walked out. It was the worst service in catering history. From then on the onion became the Lucky Onion and lived on the shelf happily ever after. 

We didn’t actually start as the Lucky Onion. We had no money but there was backstreet restaurant full of litter, with a ceiling that was caving in, squatters and a reputation for lap dancing. No one else would touch it. The Royal Well Tavern was born. We decorated it ourselves in a rather basic and distasteful way but we had a great chef, Humphrey, who cooked wonders and we got noticed by Michelin inspectors. We won a Michelin Bib Gourmand. That was in 2009. 

The Tavern Cheltenham is now one of five Lucky Onion sites; each one with its own distinct character and personality whilst all sharing our genuine passion for high quality food & drink and exceptional service. Since 2009 other industry professionals and friends appear to have noticed what we are all doing and seem to love it too. We are grateful for these acknowledgements and support. 

Our Awards

"Best of British" for the Lucky Onion Tatler Restaurant Guide 2015

Runner up "Above and Beyond" Mr and Mrs Smith Awards 2014/15

"Best Foodie" Award in the Ultimate 100 Hotels in Britain, The Sunday Times September 2014 for No 131

Finalist "Best Newcomer" The Independent Hotel Show 2014 (with Chiltern Firehouse, Ham Yard and Pig on the Beach)

"One of the coolest places to eat in England” Tatler Restaurant Guide 2014

"The Wheatsheaf is the kind of place that gives me reason to believe there is genuine substance to this country’s restaurant sector” Jay Rayner The Observer 2014

"Best 101 Hotels in the World” Tatler Travel Guide 2014/15 No 38 the Park and No 131