A New Chapter for Forte: Honouring the Past, Embracing the Future
If you’ve been with us since the beginning, you might remember Forte Tea Rooms—a charming little spot we took over back in November 2014. At the time, we had grand plans to transform it into a small plates restaurant. But after running it as it was for a while, we realised something: there was already magic here. It just needed a little refining. So, with a big refurbishment and a fresh vision, Forte Kitchen was born.
Our first year was a whirlwind. We reopened with a whole new look, a fresh approach to food, and a passion for making every visit special. That year, we were runners-up for Restaurant of the Year—a huge achievement that fuelled us to keep pushing forward. Over the years, we went on to win multiple awards, grow our team, and build a business that truly felt like home.
Then, life changed. Olly and I welcomed our first real baby into the world (Forte, of course, being the original one!), and I took a step back from the business. Not long after, COVID hit—and like for so many in hospitality, it turned our world upside down. Another baby arrived amidst the chaos, and the industry we once knew was reshaped entirely.
But if the last few years have taught us anything, it’s this: time together matters more than ever. The moments we share over food and drink—whether big celebrations or simple, everyday joys—are what truly count. And so, as our youngest starts school and we take on the challenge of shaping a business that doesn’t just survive but thrives in this new world, we’re embracing an exciting new chapter.
What’s New at Forte?
With 2025 on the horizon, we’re refining Forte to be stronger, more focused, and better suited to today’s world.
● A new website - designed to make it easier than ever to explore our events, catering, and what we offer.
● A refreshed menu - an all-day affair, bringing together everything we love about relaxed, refined, and remarkable dining.
● A streamlined space - we’re focusing on The Hatch & The White Room for everyday moments (more on that in a future blog!). Meanwhile, The Black Room is evolving into a dedicated events space but will still open on Saturdays and for special occasions like Mother’s Day.
● An expanded focus on events and catering - with more effort than ever going into making these truly extraordinary.
● Our own events - from Supper Clubs to workshops, we’re excited to bring people together for experiences that are just as much about connection as they are about great food.
This year is about rebuilding, refining, and reimagining Forte—not just to fit this new hospitality landscape, but to thrive in it. After nearly six years of taking a step back to focus on family and weathering the storm of COVID, you’ll be seeing a little more of me again. I’m back to support our fantastic team as we pivot and evolve, making Forte stronger than ever.
We’re so excited for everything 2025 will bring, and we’ll keep you updated through this blog and our newsletter (don’t worry, we won’t overwhelm your inbox!). Your feedback means everything to us, so if you have thoughts, ideas, or just want to say hello, we’d love to hear from you.
Here’s to the next chapter—let’s make it one to remember.
Naomi & Olly