Holm

South London meets rural Somerset at Holm

Over the past few years, an influx of London chefs and restaurateurs have made their way west, swapping the city’s bright lights for the South West’s big skies, coastlines and greenery.

Nicholas Balfe – part of the trio who established esteemed London restaurants Salon, Levan and Larry’s – joined the exodus at the end of 2021 to launch Holm in his home county of Somerset.

Connecting to the land and local people is the driving force behind this contemporary restaurant, which is housed within a former bank in South Petherton. The fields surrounding the small town supply many of the ingredients that contribute to the ever-evolving menus. Nicholas is careful to partner with farmers, growers, butchers, gamekeepers and fishermen who share his respect for and love of quality ingredients. The open-plan dining room is accented with mid-century modern furniture and interesting artwork, providing a casual setting for the team’s slick food. The focus of each dish is very much on the beauty of the ingredients, which shine in dishes like Cornish pollack with peas and cider butter, and ham-hock croquette with little gem lettuce.

A select and sensibly priced wine list showcases low-intervention, biodynamic and organic wines from small-scale producers – best enjoyed on the outdoor terrace.

Trencherman’s tip: Seven boutique bedrooms are due to be completed this year, transforming Holm into a rural dine-and-stay destination.

Discover more Trencherman’s restaurants in Somerset here.