The Black Bull

The Black Bull is a finalist in the Contemporary Restaurant of the Year category. 

The former 17th century coaching inn and dining room is inspired by the landscape around it and a fusion of Japanese and English cultures.

it is run by husband-and-wife team Nina Matsunaga and James Ratcliffe.

Chef-owner Nina’s cooking style is focused on using the best seasonal produce available and cooking it in the most sympathetic way to showcase the potential of every element.

Taste, texture and balance are the fundamental ingredients in her cooking.

Nina was born in Dusseldorf, Germany, to Japanese parents, as you might expect these two very difference food cultures have come to play a big part in the underlying influences in the food she creates in the kitchen.

She met James, originally from Ireby, on a trip to Manchester and they set up a street food and event catering business, before moving to Sedbergh in 2014 and opening their first eatery, The Three Hares cafe, bakery and bistro.

In 2016, they were presented with an opportunity to develop another property in Sedbergh, the Black Bull, a former 17th century coaching inn.

After 18 months of extensive refurbishment the luxuriously appointed 18 bedroomed Black Bull opened its doors in 2018.