Shaun Rankin at Grantley Hall

A word from

Shaun Rankin

"To be part of the world of Krug is to pursue the extraordinary in every detail."

Shaun Rankin (Chef Patron)

About the Ambassade

Shaun Rankin at Grantley Hall is located within the historic estate in Ripon, North Yorkshire, surrounded by rolling countryside and meticulously kept gardens. The dining room, once Grantley Hall’s music room, has been transformed into an intimate and opulent space that beautifully complements each dish. At its heart is Chef Patron Shaun Rankin, whose deep connection to the region shapes the restaurant’s philosophy and signature ‘Taste of Home’ experience, a true homage to Yorkshire’s seasonality and hyper-local produce.

About the Krug Lover

Born in County Durham and raised in North Yorkshire, Shaun Rankin’s culinary journey began in his early years whilst cooking alongside his mother in the family kitchen, igniting a lifelong passion that led to his first Michelin star in 2005 at Bohemia and a second at Ormer in 2013. He later earned a Michelin star in 2021 for Shaun Rankin at Grantley Hall, alongside four AA Rosettes.

Shaun’s connection to Maison Krug is deeply personal, marking several meaningful moments throughout his life, from celebrating his first Michelin star with a glass of Krug Grande Cuvée to sharing a bottle of Krug 2000 for his son’s 18^th birthday.

How would you describe your culinary philosophy?

My approach is built around the flavours and traditions of North Yorkshire, where I grew up. I draw inspiration from the county’s farms, coastline and wild landscapes, often incorporating ingredients that the team and I forage ourselves. My ‘Taste of Home’ menu is a direct expression of this philosophy, celebrating the produce right on our doorstep at Grantley Hall.

What role does Music play in your life?

At Shaun Rankin at Grantley Hall, music is treated as an essential layer of the experience rather than mere ambience. Set in the estate’s former music room, classical music is used throughout the restaurant to create a calming and poignant environment that complements the classic refinement of each dish.

Who would you like to share your dream dinner with and why?

I would choose to share a dream dinner with my mother, the person who first introduced me to cooking and sparked the passion that has shaped my entire career. Many of my dishes are rooted in childhood memories from her own kitchen; sharing my interpretation of those flavours and moments would be very special.

How would you describe yourself in three words?

Grounded, driven, Yorkshire. Without those three values, I wouldn’t be the chef I am today. I’m always pushing for excellence and precision, but it’s my Yorkshire roots that bring warmth and authenticity to every dish.

Where are you when you feel the happiest?

Honestly, it’s in my own kitchen at home. That’s where I’m most myself. Cooking dinner for my two boys is the part of my day that grounds me. Even though it’s home cooking, the food still has to be perfect; I can’t switch that part of my brain off. But there’s something special about creating those dishes just for them, without the pressure of a service pass or a full dining room. It’s simple, it’s personal and it reminds me why I fell in love with cooking in the first place.

What is your favourite Krug food pairing?

My favourite Krug food pairing is my Lobster and Carrot dish with Krug Grande Cuvée 173^ème Édition. Its citrus notes and subtle spice bring the structure and complexity needed to lift the recipe’s sweet and rich flavours.

What makes you a Krug Lover?

I have long been an admirer of Maison Krug, having worked with and enjoyed the champagne throughout my career. As a chef, the layered complexity and generosity of Krug Grande Cuvée make it a truly versatile gastronomic champagne; the balance and finesse that are the hallmark of the Maison allow for an interplay with the food that elevates the experience for guests in a way so few wines can. I am also inspired by the Maison’s meticulous craftsmanship and the attention that goes into every glass. The philosophy of Krug from its very inception has always resonated with me and what I look to do in the kitchen.

Krug Ambassades