As fine dining goes, it doesn't get much more exclusive than this.

A new restaurant has opened in Alysham which serves just one table per night.

Hodson and Co. No.23, which is thought to be the smallest eatery in the UK, is only open four evenings a week, by appointment only.

The table can seat from two to eight people.

Meals cost from £200 for two.

The restaurant is the brainchild of chef Charlie Hodson, who originally opened the premises on the town's Red Lion Street as a cheese room with delicatessen. 

While that business thrived during lockdown, the post-pandemic economic downturn has forced Mr Hodson to adapt the site.  

From Tuesday to Friday evenings, it opens to create an intimate “home from home” experience for food lovers. 

North Norfolk News: Hodson & Co. on Red Lion Street, AylshamHodson & Co. on Red Lion Street, Aylsham (Image: Newsquest / Denise Bradley)

Diners are taken on a celebration of British produce, as local as possible, with cheese weaved into seven of the eight courses.

Each of the courses are paired with wines or spirits, chosen by Tanja Wright of North Norfolk-based TFW Fine Wines.

Mr Hodson, 52, said: “The idea was inspired by chef's tables, which see diners book a table near, or in, a restaurant's kitchen, to speak to the chef and have a front-row view of their food being prepared.

“We’ve had to diversify the businesses and think outside of the box. We are so fortunate to have this great space to do that. 

“For us, it’s all about building a collaborative partnership and working with local businesses."

North Norfolk News: Chef Charlie Hodson sitting inside what could become the UK's smallest restaurantChef Charlie Hodson sitting inside what could become the UK's smallest restaurant (Image: Newsquest / Denise Bradley)The restaurant has been kitted out with locally sourced crockery and furniture, including items from names such as Jane Bond Pottery, Urban Clay, and Avocet Antiques. 

As well as the dining experience, the restaurant will open once a month for Sunday lunch for up to 20 people and host a pop-up shop selling its award-winning sausage rolls at Aylsham’s farmers’ market on the first Saturday of the month.

Mr Hodson is currently seeking confirmation that Hodson and Co. No. 23 is the UK’s smallest licensed restaurant. 

  • For more information or to book call 01263 735980 or email events@hodsonco.co.uk.