Bolton chef creates Valentine's Day menu for home delivery

Joe Mcleod began his hospitality career at the age of 14, developing his culinary skills at Michelin starred restaurants including Northcote Manor in Blackburn, The Manor House in Castle Comb, and Stanley House Hotel in Mellor.

Last year the 27-year-old launched Mcleod 9 Private Dining, where he would cook gourmet meals in client's own homes.

When the pandemic hit the chef adapted by offering takeaway versions of of his meals, usually based around different themes such as American comfort food and tapas.

Joe Mcleod has made gourmet takeaway meals

Joe established his At Home range, a luxury version where restaurant standard three course meals are delivered to client's doors.

Although the current lockdown has put a stop to romantic meals out, Joe is ensuring that people can still enjoy a romantic meal in.

He said: "The idea is to offer something different which isn't just a normal takeaway.

"The Valentine's Menu is part of our At Home service so the food is a bit more sophisticated.

"We're also planning on creating a Mother's Day menu which will be a more refined version of a Sunday roast, that will probably include a hamper and some flowers too.

"As a chef it feels like I'm returning to my roots by bringing the restaurant into the home."

Joe Mcleod has made gourmet takeaway meals

Mcleod 9 Private Dining delivers meals across Bolton and further afield.

Joe added:"Obviously as a chef its quite challenging coming up with meal ideas which can be easily reheated at home.

Joe Mcleod has made gourmet takeaway meals

"Usually working in a kitchen you can experiment and things fall into place, whereas these meals have to be planned so I know it will work well together and the meals can be eaten up to three days after delivery.

"We've had some really good responses from people, the meals have been a huge hit. I try and do a mixture of what people love to eat as well as more adventurous options."