The Monday Pasta Club started simply, as many great things do, as a way for chef Ed Barrow to share his love of pasta with the world. But from posting weekly recipes online to private dining events and its very own cookbook, it’s come a long way since launching in 2020, with Ed now launching a brand-new dining experience on Park Street.
The former Ahh Toots baker who’s turned a passion for pasta into a career is launching the monthly Bristol Pasta Club at the Scandi-inspired cafe, Gather. On the first weekend of each month, you can unwind in the stylish yet cosy coffee shop with a candlelit three-course Italian set menu cooked by Ed only metres away.
There was a real intimate feel to Bristol Pasta Club when I attended a ‘soft launch’, with only space for 20 guests. Plus, compared to a regular restaurant, there’s no kitchen at this supper club, which leaves Ed to cook everything in front of you on the coffee bar in the middle of the room. It even gives Ed a chance to serve food to guests and chat a little too – putting him at the heart of the evening.
When it comes to the food, I was treated to a hearty focaccia flatbread topped with marinated aubergine, Somerset buffalo mozzarella (yes, there are really buffalo in Somerset!) and fermented chilli; a creamy and zesty confit leek and mascarpone tagliatelle with lemon thyme and brown butter pamgratatto; followed by an indulgent espresso tart with a dark chocolate cremeux, thanks to local chocolate makers, Ruby Hue.
Each edition of Bristol Pasta Club will be completely different though, but we expect every supper club to continue to be a celebration of local ingredients and, of course, pasta. The December menu includes taleggio, chestnut and truffle cannelloni, and a maple and cinnamon sponge for £38 per person. A carefully curated wine list, alongside local beers, ciders and soft drinks will also be available.
“The past few years have seen The Monday Pasta Club grow exponentially which has been super exciting for me, but I’m careful not to rush into something like this,” said Ed, talking about his plans for the Monday Pasta Club. “So for now I think 2025 will see me keep going as I am with The Bristol Pasta Club and spending as much time in the kitchen as possible.”
To sign up here for early access booking at Bristol Pasta Club head here.