The racing calendar has begun and we have been invited to PARADE Chester for the Boodles May Festival to celebrate. Between us we have been guests and organisers of numerous hospitality and events of all shapes and sizes, so we know what we are looking for and we know what we like.
Before we have decided on our outfits, we have already been in touch with the super-efficient (and super-friendly) concierge team who have answered the silliest of questions and ensured that we are all set. We have also received our invitation pack via special delivery. This arrives in an elegant plain white folder with foil embossing (sadly, from years of publishing, we admire the quality of the paper stock too) and includes our badges, parking and details of the day.
The venue
Situated right beside the finishing line on the inside of Chester Racecourse, PARADE is a standalone purpose-built venue. Access is for guests only (and they are super strict on this, people can’t just wander in) with a dedicated fine-dining space, bar area, downstairs undercover outdoor lounge and full length first floor garden roof bar.
It was first opened in 2019 and the first thing we notice is that it looks brand new, no tiredness in the decor. There’s a definite Miami vibe going on with the blush pinks and gold and it feels like a haven away from the hustle and bustle of raceday.
With a maximum capacity of just 70 guests, even full, and with enthusiastic racing fans, the overall feel is understated luxury. The pictures speak for themselves.
Off note: This was a May day frequented by showers and whilst we were supplied with a PARADE parasol to brave the breaks in the weather, it felt like the perfect place to be and it was all in one place.
Food & drink
The very first thing that was placed in our hands was a generous glass of Laurent-Perrier Rosé, thank you, and we were shown to our table for the day. The restaurant was set up with tables for 2, 4, 6, 8 & 10 including some very lovely booths.
The menu varies every day, which means every time you visit (and there are 15 fixtures in a season) Chef has a brand new selection of dishes to tantalise your tastebuds. It is based on the seasons and is a four-course menu including starter, fish, main and dessert plus bread (with some great flavoured butters) and signature canapé. Courses were perfectly timed between races and perfectly proportioned. There was going to be no need to pop for fish and chips on the way home!
There is a varied wine list by the bottle and by the glass and Cino, the sommelier, is on hand for any recommendations and pairings. There’s a great cocktail and bar menu too. We can recommend The Furlong Fizz and Espresso Martini.
After the final race, there is also an early evening light bites platter served to the sound of the resident-DJ. Ours was complete with mini-burgers, samosas and Thai fish cakes.
The extras
There’s a resident tipster, and ex-jockey who pops in, to update you on runners and riders, and hot favourites. As well as an in-house Chester Bet team who are super-knoweldgable and helpful if you don’t really know what you’re doing.
And, in the very Instagrammable ladies room, there is a fabulous make-up artist on hand to de-shine, straighten and refresh. Along with an handy menu of things that you didn’t think you needed but you suddenly do, things like a phone-charger, blister plasters or dress tape. Excellent thinking.
The details
Prices start from £580 + VAT per person and there is a lot for your money. The only extra is drinks (the Laurent Perrier welcome drink and signature PARADE cocktail with your evening light bite is included) and anything you wish to spend on bets.
Final thoughts
PARADE Chester has spoilt us. It is ideal for that special ocassion, a haven on a busy race day yet right in the centre of the action. A few of our fellow diners were corporate hospitality and it worked really well for that too. We couldn’t fault the food, people or service, loved the interiors, and have decided that we need our very own make-up artist in our bathroom.
PARADE Chester has limited availablity in June and July, if you are interested please do not hesitateto contact the dedicated concierge team: concierge@paradechester.com
