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Comments

When will the next installment (if there is one) of this programme be aired? Would have thought there would be some follow up considering it just looks like one big publicity stunt from little chefs side!

Posted by bobby on 11/08/2009 12:50:43

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forget popham visit the little chef thrapston there food is wonderful

Posted by Dean Taylor on 01/05/2009 14:12:55

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When will this show, "big chef takes on little chef" be on 4oD?

Posted by CJB on 12/04/2009 22:26:52

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i went into popham at the weekend - and yes still doing the HC menu - and it was v good

Posted by frankie on 03/03/2009 18:20:02

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Anyone know if Popham is still running with HB menu or has LC HQ given them the old menu to go with as of today. As the it is now March and the trial ran until the end of Febuary. I mean there's still some of us that couldn't get down there and still want to. Damn why didn't they trial it at one of the two near me. Come on LC go nationwide and bring back your old and new cusomers.

Posted by BadgerCM on 01/03/2009 07:57:19

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We visited the revamped Little Chef last Sunday (08-02-09 at 18:00) I think that once the gloss and PR from the TV show is gone this brand will revert back to form. Our meal was ok, quality control was not up to Heston’s standards or that of the companies rivals. The server forgot to enter our order into the computer till after taking it from our table in his note book (why did he not have a hand held computer?) With no mention of the specials or any attempt to suggestive sell side dishes with a main course that loses money every time it is sold. The management of this company will have to remove all loss making elements of any dish to cover for the lack of effort that the staff put into the dining experience / company profitably ie back to how it always was.

Posted by Martin Prosser on 14/02/2009 13:47:39

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Stopped at the Little Chef on Friday 6th Feb with my partner. We had sausage and mash and the Tag Bol meals and they were gorgeous! Really don't like the American diner style decor, and there are no small tables for couples - making you feel uncomfortable to take up such a large space. But the food was of a much higher quality than the usual little chef and the service was cheerful and helpful.

Posted by rebecca on 08/02/2009 12:36:18

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I am glad Heston revamped the Little chef brand as it was much needed. My girlfriend and I recently visited the popham site and thoroughly enjoyed the hole experience. It was 12 years ago I last visited a little chef and vowed never to go back as the magic had seemed to have gone. But with the new menu and new design it was a fresh and fun experience that I would do again. The prices were extremley competitive and the service was good. It was a real treat to see good honest food on a roadside service station and long may it continue. All in all i wish it the best and hope it will be a triumph. As it is a much needed gap in the market.

Posted by Andrew Jones on 05/02/2009 08:43:01

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Great that Heston has reminded Little Chef about quality of food and service. I hope it will be rolled out nationwide, and if it is, I will actually look forward stopping on a journey. One idea that could further increase the appeal of Little Chef to discerning customers: Employ an attendant to fill up customers cars at the garage next door. This would give people more time to enjoy the food and increase the time relaxing away from the car. Better still if you could pay just one bill in the restaurant for food and fuel. You could charge a small amount for the service and many customers wouldn't mind paying.

Posted by Derek Barnden on 29/01/2009 15:21:48

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Will someone tell Mr 'Blue Skies' that it's no good having all the fashionable lingo,you have to know how to run a business as well. Well done Heston,you came across as a really nice guy-no swearing either,despite being pushed to the limits by a gopher!

Posted by Lynn on 28/01/2009 20:36:28

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Visited the Popham Little Chef between Xmas & NewYear-what a surprise-it was great!Hadn't been for years due to the dirty restaurants/horrid food.There was such a choice!I had the yummy porridge but was so tempted by the granola(must have next time)Freshly sqeezed orange,great tea and a latte that tasted of coffee! A bacon butty to die for!Can't wait to go back and see if standards have been maintainedWorth paying more for!

Posted by lazy sunday on 28/01/2009 20:21:26

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I missed all the programmes and would rather watch them on TV than online. Anyone got any idea when they are repeated?

Posted by Emily on 28/01/2009 12:02:05

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where was big chef takes on little chef filmed???

Posted by ayden on 25/01/2009 16:15:31

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went to the LC popham this week 23rd jan at about 1300 was a lot of people waiting for seats and to eat we had to wait for about 30 mins for the table the food was very good and worth the wait i have not been to a LC since i was a kid the staff were very busy and a bit strested so the service was not as good as i hoped but understand that it is just a road side stop, but i do think this will get better with time and after the rush of the show has stopped

Posted by martinnorthdevon on 25/01/2009 15:58:11

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Thank God for Heston! We are regular eaters at Little Chef and have been increasingly disappointed in the standard of the food and drink served up. Last night we went to Popham, 40 miles away and an hours journey. It was brilliant, even though we had to wait half an hour for a table and some of the dishes were sold out. We had the Steak, with Garlic Bread followed by pancakes and waffles. The food was delicious and even though the staff were rushed off their feet, they remained cheerful and helpful. We would l ike to congratulate them on their performance and beg you to roll out the new Heston Menue everywhere as soon as possible. The refurbishment was a big improvement too - fun, modern and still Little Chef. Looking forward to the new menue. Best wishes for the future. Franky Hindmarsh

Posted by Franky Hindmarsh on 25/01/2009 13:39:19

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Loved the show. How on earth Heston didn't come to blows with "Mr L C", I don't know. When all the fuss has died down I am going to brave the trip from Staffordshire especially to try it with my autistic son - wonder how they will cope with him!!!!

Posted by Karen Kelly on 25/01/2009 12:27:25

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Heston out classed 'Mr Blue skies thinking' by miles!! It's really refreshing to see a celebrity chef whom is able to manange his temper and come across calm and collected and with the ultimate goal in focus. It was also good if not remarkable to see such little food snobery throughout the show as it's really tiresome. You really had to feel sorry for that infuriating, impossible, I've recently been on a 'how to talk management' course but still fail to see the bigger picture because all I only have the capacity to see what's in front of me chief exec of Little Chef what a shame. Despite chief exec I may even venture in myself one day if the scheme is rolled out especially if the team are like that wonderful lot in Popham they were great a big hat's off to them and Heston!

Posted by Lisa Allison on 25/01/2009 11:55:02

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Visited last night and the place was heaving!Waited 45 mins for a table but well worth it.Food was excellent though they had run out of a few things due to demand.Mussels,olympic breakfast,pork belly( a special)and fish and chips were just as good as a five star restaurant. Michael the manager is there,and spent 10 mins chatting to us.Staff were brilliant,friendly,helpful and really enjoyed doing their jobs.Worked amazingly as a team and no stess or rushed eating.Even with the long wait it made for a very enjoyable evening.My only criticism was that there was no vegetarian breakfast choice, such as vege sausages, which they used to do and NO MILKSHAKES!!!! Loved the decor.Well done heston and a big well done to all the staff.We will certainly be visiting again

Posted by victoria reeks on 25/01/2009 11:37:58

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My brother and I both travelled down to Popham specifically to sample the new menu. I have previously (as a teenager) worked at Little Chef, but in recent years had (because of the poor food and presentation standards) started to avoid them like the plague. However, the food this time was superb and, if rolled out (without change) across all Little Chefs I can see us seeking out rather than avoding Little Chef in future; particularly as the staff we courteous even though we arrived on motorcycles. Mind you I'm also considering visting Heston's own restaurant having seen how commited to quality food he is.

Posted by Terry Weaver on 25/01/2009 11:00:47

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I am a regular Popham customer but crucially always go to the Wild Bean Cafe and barely noticed Little Chef. However, completely unaware of Heston's involvement I broke the habit of a lifetime - ditched the prepacked picnic - and took my 2 young daughters to LC last week. I thought at the time that maybe I live a sheltered life and don't get out much because I was expecting - and bracing - myself for the anticipated LC horrors but ohmygod this was fantastic! My daughter had fish and chips and spent her whole meal fighting me for her food. The staff were wonderful and if Little Chef have any sense they will roll this out nationally. The standard has been set and I for one will not go to another Little chef restaurant that does not follow this model and the one thing I noted above everything else was the freshness and quality of the fish. It was not only a surprise, it was a delight and I might even start visiting my inlaws more often!!!!! Congratulations.

Posted by Victoria on 24/01/2009 22:40:36

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We visited the Popham little Chef today for a late lunch- 24-1-09. The place was jammed being the first weekend after the show aired and we had to wait for a good while before being given a table. It was worth the wait, we had the fish and chips and the chicken Tikka. The mains were delicious and of a gastro pub standard way beyond what you would expect in a LC. The desserts though were just something else, the hot chocolate pudding would have put a restaurant or two to shame and the trifle with small side bowls of chocolate curls, biscuit topping and popping candy was top notch. The staff were working really hard and I admired their professionalism and level of good service under such pressure. We plan to make another visit soon, I certainly would not step foot in a local LC at the moment but the 110 mile round trip to Popham is well worth it.

Posted by Four-One on 24/01/2009 22:25:26

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Popped in on the Saturday night after the programme went out earlier in the week. We were happy to wait 45 minutes for a table to become free and enjoyed a drink whilst perusing the menu. The food (mussels for starter, fish & chips for main, pancakes for dessert) and service were fantastic. The staff were very friendly and helpful and were working like dogs, probably running on adrenalin and the exhilaration of a week's celebrity! Eating was a very sociable experience - some people had driven down from London to try the menu. HOWEVER -- people were taking their time eating and enjoying the experience, like in a `real` restaurant, whereas Little Chef say they're all about getting people in and out fast. If fewer people are staying longer, does that mean lower takings and lower profits? Or does the fact that everyone around us had 3 courses, drinks and coffee balance that out? Whatever - Little Chef Popham is a fabulous model for the brand ain every respect and let's hope this 3 month trial is judged a success.

Posted by Bryn Hughes on 24/01/2009 22:07:08

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Shortly after new year, my family & I visited the Popham Little Chef and were surprised by the vast difference in design, and the alterations to the menu. Needless to say, this series has now answered the reasons! In respect of the new design, we thought it was excellent - Bright, vibrant, exciting and inviting. Comfortable surroundings and modern. As for the menu, it was absolutely amazing. Although we kept relatively simple with a selection of breakfasts between us all, it was difficult to choose between other dishes on the menu as it all looked so tempting! The quality of the breakfast was noticeably different. The overall opinion from this family is to press ahead and roll the changes out - Heston has hit the nail on the head in my opinion, and has also gained my respect for simply sticking with the project despite the hurdles thrown in by the Little Chef team.

Posted by Martin on 24/01/2009 21:08:49

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Wavers, the music from the series is from the film 'the Ipcress File' starring Michael Caine (a classic).

Posted by 0121simon on 24/01/2009 17:30:43

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Watched the series and don't know how Heston kept his cool so well with someone who appears to be impossible to please - or was that the Little Chef's main man's idea? It certainly HASN'T done him ANY favours where as Heston has SOARED in my estimation! We REFUSE to go into a Little Chef due to the decor, food quality and general 'state' of the chain, instead preferring to find a GOOD Pub (in advance) advertising well sourced food and cooked PROPERLY! Although you CANNOT guarantee that you will get what you expect from such a Pub it has usually proved quite successful. HOWEVER -if we KNEW that a Little Chef was as GOOD as the Popham one, with DECENT food being served at REASONABLE prices for WELL SOURCED food, we would love to go and eat in one! However, that will probably NOT be the case! GOOD FOOD DOES NOT COME CHEAP, either, so it may come as a shock to some diners that the Popham menu is more expensive than before! Generally, you get what you pay for! SO - well done, Heston! Let's hope you've woken a few people up and made a few thousand or so more aware of what goes on in Little Chef Diners.

Posted by Diana on 24/01/2009 17:16:09

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The three programmes were great and I admire Heston B. for taking on the challenge. The programme highlights two aspects:- 1. There is a huge gap between the Fat Duck and Little Chef, and a lot of people are just interested in volume (of a meal) and speed (getting in and out of the meal providor quickly)-sad! 2. The cost of providing quality ingredients( with a nice taste, texture and standard of presentation include the decor of the place)is not huge. The "Venture Capital fraternity" are only interested in maximum profit and it is wrong, in my opinion, to carry this too far. Providors have a duty to society ahead of personal greed!

Posted by derek clark on 24/01/2009 10:51:24

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I thought the little touches such as the thyme oil on the tomatoes were very accessible and tried it at home and do make a big difference. It would make me think about eating at a Little Chef, which is somthing I wouldn't have thought about before. Ian, the boss though, anyone else thought he was a bit "David Brent", what is "Blue Sky" thinking? The Poppham manager however, come on the guy needs his own show!

Posted by Helen on 24/01/2009 09:55:39

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Dropped in on Boxing Day out of curiosity on the early publicity and just had a coffee and a good look at the menu. Very pleasantly surprised: a good coffee is very difficult to find (and I do not rate any of the ubiquitous chains from Seattle!!) Went back last week (before the broadcasts) with a work colleague instead of heading to lunch in one of the local Basingstoke pubs. We had between us lamb shank and coq au vin and a couple of glasses of wine followed by more excellent coffee. My colleague who initially thought I was daft was very pleasantly surprised. And it left the local pubs in the shade. Loved the lollipops!!

Posted by Sandy on 24/01/2009 00:09:25

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The thing that struck me most about the new menu was the lack of vegetarian food - no surprises really, since it always seems to be an afterthought. Two choices - macaroni cheese and veggie casserole with ale - neither of these are suitable for me, since I am also wheat free. It will be the local pub for me then -sorry Heston !

Posted by June Austin on 23/01/2009 21:26:08

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My mother and I tried Popham on 18 Dec. It was great - delicious Early Starter breakfast. Good food, well cooked. We'd given up stopping at Little Chef before Heston's makeover as the food was so revolting. I do hope Little Chef stick to Heston's suppliers and keep up the standards he has introduced. We liked the redecoration as well. We're off down to Cornwall again in February and we'll definitely stop there.

Posted by Rosemary on 23/01/2009 21:24:20

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Thoroughly enjoyed this series! What is the music reprieved all the way through? It's the same as the Victoria Wood Christmas Special (2000) - the Roger Moore sketch in The Eye capsule? Anyone put me out my misery on this one?

Posted by Wavers on 23/01/2009 20:42:49

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Does Ian Pegler have as much knowledge of running a business as a munchkin? Sack him!! Immature, unprofessional and unknowledgeable!!! If Little Chef is to survive then they must get rid of him. Hats off to Heston for not running at a 100mph in the opposite direction from this challenge.

Posted by mummyandrea on 23/01/2009 17:02:50

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We've just been to Popham and had a lovely time. Because of the TV program the place was humming and it took an hour from walking through the door, to food on the table, but the wait was well worth it as the food has changed beyond recognision. You can still have the eggs,bacon,toast,sausage, etc meal but for those people that want something different it's there in abundance. We had the Ox Cheek and mash with a side order of mixed veg. The meat feel apart as you broke it open, you really didn't need a knife. For dessert I had the sticky toffee pudding which was soft and moist and the sauce was fabulous. My husband had the Black Forest Gateaux Mousse, great flavours he loved it. If Mr Peglar has any sense he will role this out a.s.a.p and make a lot of money. My only niggle would be that the bar seats are very uncomfortable, the seating at the tables is too deep, the sinks in the ladies are not close enough to the taps so when you turn the water on it flows behind the sink a little, which means all the "dry area" is wet! But these are small things and I'm sure they could be altered. The staff worked very hard to make sure that everyone was happy and it was nice to see them in their posh new uniforms. Well done everyone at Little Chef Popham and well done Heston, you haven't arrived a moment too soon.

Posted by TT Bird on 23/01/2009 16:52:45

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The best thing on TV for ages! I love it! Was Peglar for real? Put him on Masterchef as a judge - I'd listen to his comedy 'cogitating' for hours. I admire Heston's ability to bite his tongue, I suspect Gordon Ramsey wouldn't have been so tactful. Heston was brilliant - he clearly deserves to be at the top of his profession - but the Little Chef staff were the true stars of the show - good for them and all their hard work. About time someone starts to tackle the low standard of food at 'average' places to eat. But is it really that difficult to do at an affordable price? I hope that Little Chef really does change but based on the programme I find it hard to believe they have the balls required. They were probably all used up in the Olympic breakfasts years ago.

Posted by Sarah on 23/01/2009 16:42:51

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We tried the Popham Little Chef 3 weeks ago and were not disappoined the braised ox cheeks were sumptuous real comfort food and my husband loved his steak and ale pie topped with a flavoursome suet crust not the usual tasteless dry puff pastry topping so common these days. The ambiance was great bright and welcoming but I think the bench seating could be a problem difficult for staff to reach across to serve. Watching the program and seeing the hard graft by both Heston's Team and the Little Chef staff to bring about the total revamp of this branch of the ailing chain I sincerely hope that it is rolled out to all other Little Chef, sad if it were just a marketing ploy. We have very fond memories of little chef and certainly would like to make it a regular stopping off place on future travels rather than as in recent years having to make detours away from main routes to avoid Little Chef comfort breaks!

Posted by Rosie on 23/01/2009 13:37:46

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Great TV and intereting to see the approach to a real business problem. I teach Business Management in a school and the subject matter is an excellent aid to getting some of the disciplines across.

Posted by Mike Fairman on 23/01/2009 11:30:07

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Who remembers Happy Eater? Back in the early 1980s my grandparents used to take me to Little Chef, which I remember as being slightly posher or maybe not having as good a childrens' menu as Happy Eater. I also seem to remember the lollipops were better at LC but the badges were better at HE. Its a brand I was sad to see die, but I have to admit the cheerful bulemic pacman logo just wouldnt cut it these days were it ever to be ressurected. I just hope that the underwhelming Pegler does do as Heston suggests, and then at least we'll still have Little Chef in the future.

Posted by Thomas on 22/01/2009 23:45:18

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I watched Big Chef takes on Little Chef and enjoyed it tremendously. i thought Heston done a tremendous job with seemingly everything against him. I do have one very important question, although the new look little chef seemed very modern I did not see any disabled facilities, or any tables where disabled people could sit and eat. Where these just not filmed or was these things overlooked?

Posted by luckyden on 22/01/2009 21:39:10

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We went to the Popham resturant last wednesday and were disappointed in the lack of choice. Also the price of the food was ridiculous. When we were in there people were asking for teacakes in which they do not do anymore. Little chef is no more little chef its not the same as it used to be

Posted by neil on 22/01/2009 21:15:05

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Are there any plans for a repeat of this at any point - I use a mac and am not allowed to use 4od -boo. thought the man from little chef was like david brent - amazing.

Posted by kit on 22/01/2009 21:04:31

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love the site full of great info.just wondering if you could tell me the list of music that was played on Big Chef Takes on Little Chef

Posted by sinead cronin on 22/01/2009 20:31:33

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Heston is as cute as a button and a culinary genius...his wife is a lucky lady!

Posted by lorraine steel on 22/01/2009 17:31:05

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Previous comments mirror some of my thoughts - marvellous decor and excellent service(we visited on 16th January), underused tables so breakfast bar only seating available and yes, it was a little uncomfortable with no back support.Breakfast was good but would like to sample other dishes. The Channel 4 programme was very watchable and Mr. Blumenthal came across as a thoroughly nice chap. I was also concerned that the previous manager had disappeared from the restaurant but that point has been answered, truthfully,I hope. Is "rolled out" a new expression - have not heard it before. I welcome the time when the new Little Chef package is introduced to the other sites in the country.

Posted by Jane Elson on 22/01/2009 16:45:16

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Little Chef have had the benefit of one of the world's top chefs for 5 months and I truly hope they will have the foresight to roll out Heston's menu nationwide. However, if Little Chef insist on higher profit margins and start cutting costs by reducing the quality of ingredients, then it will have all been for nothing. If Heston and his team's hard work, research and staff training hasn't convinced Little Chef that this is the way to go, Ian Pegler should go and do his 'blue sky thinking' somewhere else (perhaps at one of those cold, impersonal motorway service stations where a tasteless sandwich and a small bottle of juice will set you back ?8). It would be a shame, after 50 years, to see Little Chef curl up its Little Tootsies but as Ian would no doubt concur, "You can lead a horse to water but you cannot make it drink".

Posted by Julia on 22/01/2009 16:24:33

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We tried Popham on the 27th December - it was very quiet at mid afternoon. There were about 20 customers in. We were told we could sit at the breakfast bar otherwise we would have to wait as there were no seating tables free. All the long bench tables had two people on them, one each side facing each other, and blocking off all the other seats on the bench. We asked the staff to ask someone to move up and share the long table or we would leave. They asked the nearest and the gent kindly moved round to his wife's side and invited us to join them. We did and had a very pleasant lunch sharing the same table. Who in the world wants to sit on a stool at a breakfast bar with no back support after driving for three hours. Not this 70 year old! The food was wierd. His was a pie in a dish on a plate surrounded by grey green gravey, no veg at all so he shared his wife's chips - I cannot remember what else she had. My wife a vegetarian, had little choice and went for a plain omelette (came with salad)but had to order a side dish of chips. I had a very nice fish & chips and the tiniest pot of mushy peas (which I hate). Our conclusion was that the seating was ridiculous. The food was good but there were very few vegetables included with the main dish. Oh yes! And it was pricey. We might try it again, but we might go next door to the garage's M&S shop for a picnic in the car.

Posted by DenLong on 22/01/2009 13:56:30

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Just wanted to say after wathching last nights final episode, that i admire Hestons commitment determination and skills in managing the project thus far. I really do hope Little Chef becomes succesful again.

Posted by Grahame on 22/01/2009 13:31:33

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I notice on a recruitment web-site they are looking for a new manager for the Popham little chef, does anyone know what has happened to the manager who featured in the programme - I thought he had been there for 25 years?

Posted by katylIVERPOOL on 22/01/2009 13:09:51

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Having seen the article about the programme in the Radio Times and googling Popham on the web, we left home for Cornwall to arrive at Popham for lunch. It was well worth the drive. The food was great - not greasy or over-cooked. They will have to hurry up and update the next Little Chef on the A303 because in the summer there are going to be queues for food! The other thing we noticed was how enthusiastic and friendly the staff were. We look forward to the roll-out of Heston's menu to all the other Little Chefs as we were rather disappointed at the quality of the food at the others we stopped at.

Posted by Bobby on 22/01/2009 11:46:38

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@Shaunrich: Little Chef have stated that the manager from the TV show is still with the company, and was brought in to oversee the transition to Hestons B.'s new menu, and has since decided that he wants to go back to the branch he was working at before, as it's a two-hour drive to Popham for him. At least, that's what they *say*... :-)

Posted by Steve on 22/01/2009 10:33:03

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Why are they advertising for a new Manager and Team Leader at Popham on the Little Chef Website?

Posted by Shaunrich on 22/01/2009 09:37:11

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I called into Popham last Friday what a surprise. Decor up to date (like the blue sky feel) and clean, staff welcoming. I only tried the Macaroni Cheese but but it was edible and the salad fresh. Service was quick and with a smile. So when do we get it nationwide? I can't wait to start making it my regular stop off again after many years. On price if it's good food you don't mind the cost. Best of luck for the future

Posted by JR on 22/01/2009 08:23:05

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They have got to roll this out nationwide. I visited a Little Chef a few weeks back at Thrapston. the staff were great and the food was fine but it didn't make me want to go out of my way to revisit. Yet if I knew it was doing Heston's food I would detour and I would be happy to pay a few extra quid.

Posted by JdV on 22/01/2009 01:14:45

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Great programme, where did you get the furniture from?

Posted by Martin Henson on 22/01/2009 01:00:25

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Thank God for Heston bring it on,lets get all the chefs like popham,bright sparkling and the food looks great.If Mr Pegler does not go with this then just shut the lot,haveing worked on and off for 15 years for little chef this is what it needs, my daughter still works for the company in the coffee shop and does the odd day in the chef has well. I miss working for the company and always went out my way to go the extra mile for customers to make them feel welcome.SO come on Pegler lets get this show on the road if you need some help come looking and i will be willing to give you a hand.THIS IS BEING SENT BY A LADY THAT HAS A LOT OF PASSION STILL IN HER. PS.Thanks Heston you make me wont my job back now!!!! This is my second comment could not help myself from emailing again.

Posted by Anita on 21/01/2009 23:51:25

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I have been to the Little Chef at Popham and tasted Hestons' new menu, it is excellent. My children really enjoyed the chocolate fondue and my Mum (79) thought the black forest gateau mousse was fabulous. We had a great lunch there on 20th December on our way to Somerset. Can't wait to go back! We often travel on the A303. I did think the music/kitchen noises in the toilets unusual. Loved the seagulls and clouds on the ceiling and my daughters liked the butterflies and birds on the walls etc. Great.

Posted by Louise Scantlebury on 21/01/2009 22:56:53

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I think what this show proved more than anything is the people at the top of the chain is just as important as the people at the bottom. And if you get idiots at the top you have people at the bottom who don't care about food they send out. I think the real 'blue sky' thinking here was to get a new CEO of the place and train staff to take pride in their work. Something they have clearly never had before.The last time I went into a little chef was about 10 years ago. It seemed to be on it's last legs then, why did it take so long for someone to do something about it?

Posted by Joanne on 21/01/2009 22:49:45

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Was massively critical of both Heston and Peglar (wannabe CEO) during the first two episodes and really started ranting at the television - Heston being the wrong man for the job (see other posts) and Peglar being annoying. Pure theatre. I suppose that's what makes good TV! However, having watched the last episode tonight it all fell into place. Respect to Heston for doing it justice and getting the mix right, and also Ab Rogers for the interior design (musical bogs and food journo snippets printed on the wall a masterstroke). We're on our way to Popham next week to try it out!

Posted by Sam & Nat on 21/01/2009 22:45:05

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Funny butter on the eggs is not the way to increase custom at Little Chef. This will only put off people who don't like the fancy stuff or those who are allergic to milk products (such as my wife). Better quality food is a good idea though. People want a wide choice with dressings optional. Being able to rely on the fact that you know what you will get is great if you are in a hurry and don't want to spend time looking around. The main problem is that Little Chef is a bit expensive for what you get. Drinks are particularly expensive and this sort of thing makes you think twice about stopping off there if the cost is coming out of your own pocket rather than the company expenses, especially if you have a whole family to feed. I know that Little Chef does give special offers sometimes but these are not well publicised. Perhaps special deals, eg free drink with meal, at quiet times might boost sales from passing trade if advertised at the roadside. People like to see discounts nowadays when they buy something or they just drive past.

Posted by Lawrence on 21/01/2009 22:41:36

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well done channel 4 and well done heston. Food critics and other people say that food in the uk is now as good as the best in the rest of our world, While this is true in our top resturants it is not true in the food that is served to the average joe blogs. So most food people get with little money is still poor, while in france and italy cheap food is often very much better. So if little chef can put out good food at a good price then that is great and means more than how many 3 star michelen resturants we have in the uk. so once again well done channel 4 and heston

Posted by andy e on 21/01/2009 22:40:00

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Heston is brilliant!!!! The crisis at little chef is just another example of out of touch CEOs and their so called "blue sky thinking"! On what planet do these people live! Heston not only produced good quality food but he also made the staff proud of their restaurant. Something little chef bosses clearly could not do! Sack Peglar and bring in Heston as CEO!!!!!

Posted by littlebee on 21/01/2009 22:27:22

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Congratulations to Heston and all the team at Popham and the Fat Duck who made it happen. I hope the flagship restaurant is a success so that the re-vamp of the menu and interiors gets extended to more Little Chef's in the UK. I wouldn't have chosen to eat in Little Chef before these changes - to eat over-priced food that tastes worse than what I can cook myself. I think Heston struck a really good balance between retaining dishes that will be broadly popular albeit with a twist, and putting in some new dishes for the more experimental customer. Everyone gets attached to the familiarity of their routines, but I think those who are quibbling over whether or not the Olympic still has fried potato or not need to remember that the chain was likely to close altogether before this initiative.

Posted by Laura, Newcastle on 21/01/2009 22:26:49

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As an ex Little Chef employee (mid to late 80s giong through uni) I have noticed a dramatic decline since the Trusthouse Forte days, I like what Heston has done at Popham and hope it is a success, rolled out and maybe then some of the old restaurants reopened (my nearest Little Chef used to be 5 miles away now it's 65 miles away) if they do, I'll be visiting, it may be a little expensive for a road side cafe but it will be dirt cheap for a Heston dish. Want a cheap quick bite stop at one of the roadside vans, want a sit down decent bit of quality grub stop at a Little Chef.

Posted by Stephen Gunn on 21/01/2009 22:21:38

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We have tried the new Little Chef. Looked good, service good, food good. Would go back.

Posted by M Wyles on 21/01/2009 22:15:59

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Just had dinner at Popham...steak pie with mushy pea gavy and peas....brilliant...so much better than before...and so much better than the other chains. The best bit was the very real sense of pride that the team had in THEIR restaurant...warm and friendly but quietly professional. I would genuinely choose this Little Chef over a lot of mid-market restaurants. It's that good. Take a detour. You'll love it!

Posted by Bill Booth on 21/01/2009 22:15:48

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I also have very fond memories of eating at little chef and used to love the pancakes. The show was great and i agree change is necessary to save them. However the menu has left me apprehensive, by going this route, it seems to me that little chef will lose most of its customers who are lets face it people who travel the motorways all the time, truckers. It has also alienated families as most of the kids i've ever seen in little chef had a burger and chips, not a fancy dinner. The bonus to little chef was that it was affordable food for a family to stop off for. This has not been the case for some years and quite frankly I was horrified the last time I went in one as I couldn't afford to eat. Quality ingredients is great, but not everyone can afford 10.00 per person for a meal. I reserve judgement on the new menu till I see if I can afford to eat it.

Posted by sophie on 21/01/2009 22:11:52

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Excellent programming, the CEO does come across as an arse, but then he will and does have to be concerned with bottom line profit. It is however a shame to see another "talker" (blue skies, revolution not evolution!) in a position of power in an industry he doesn't seem that interested in. Most importantly I hope this has raised the profile of one of Britian's most forward thinking and successful chefs to the level he deserves, Heston, I salute you, you are legend and come across as a genuinely nice guy.

Posted by Paul M on 21/01/2009 22:11:37

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I ate in this Little Chef on the day it re-opened and the food and service were fantastic, my husband and I didn't stop talking about it and telling people how good it was and now we know why! Well done! It's got to be rolled out across all Little Chefs, it would certainly make me go to Little Chef on journeys rather than for a sandwich at a service station!

Posted by Gemma on 21/01/2009 22:05:45

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I have not eaten at little chef 4 approx 10 years but i will do if they roll out the menu. Any ideas if this will happen?

Posted by kerri on 21/01/2009 22:04:10

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What great TV, can't get onto the little chef website to find out where the restaurant is...I would eat anything Heston made to be honest...now I can afford it too. Thanks Heston

Posted by jocey on 21/01/2009 22:04:02

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After watching the last of the three part Little chef program, I would like to say a big thanks to Heston as I think and hope that this will revitalize the brand. To begin with I thought Heston should have walked away as Ian was making it even more difficult than it was to begin with. WELL DONE HESTON, I THINK YOU HAVE DONE IT........

Posted by Jonathan on 21/01/2009 21:58:46

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Come on guys get into the real world. Replace the CEO invest some cash and revive little chef with Hestons help. This give people what they want stuff is true but having people say the menus going wrong because there are no pictures sums it up I think. Us Brits aren't all idiots! Improve the quality and we will come!

Posted by Hugger38 on 21/01/2009 21:57:53

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Little Chef needs to change and Heston should be applauded for trying. But first they need to sack that idiot Peglar! And replace all the staff and managers, who's attitudes as shown on this program, say it all. It is exactly the attitude you get when you go into a Little Chef. They are scruffy, uninterested, untrained and are dragging the brand down. The Little Chef's are a real state dirty and falling apart, no wonder people are not using them anymore. Often I have been in them and they are refusing to serve food. What a way to run a bussiness, the Managers are not fit to run them, just like the guy on the program, no vision and a negative attitude. They need quality food and quality management. GO HESTON GO!!!! Just wait till they go bust and then buy them and run them yourself, you'll be onto a winner!

Posted by JO on 21/01/2009 21:34:53

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Little Chef needs to realise where it sits in the market. It completes with McD's, Burger King, Pizza Hut etc,etc. They should keep the menu simple and british, and make the food easy to prepare like the production like at Mc Donalds. Why the CEO can't see this is beyond me

Posted by Andy on 21/01/2009 21:33:41

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heston better not get rid or change the famous jubilee pancakes!!!

Posted by jo on 21/01/2009 21:16:13

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i agree strongly with heston the little chef boss needs to open his mind broden his horizon and listen to a chef who has the three mitchellin stars and let heston do his job of making little chef a success because the current little chef boss obviously doesnt know how to make it money.

Posted by tania ede on 21/01/2009 21:08:34

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One feels that maybe Jamie Oliver would be better suited to the kind of new menu that Little Chef patrons are looking for, but their Director type chap is in his own little world. Did he really need to pay one of the world's most accomplished chef's to do basic market research for him? Does he really think that tired families and lorry drivers want Fat Duck style food? That said, although Heston isn't really doing what he's famous for, he's quickly sussed his target market and knows how to please his customers well. This series makes him shine in that it shows that winning Michelin Stars isn't his only forte. Looking forward to the last episode tonight!

Posted by Patrick on 21/01/2009 20:43:29

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Ive watched the first two episodes of Big Chef/Little Chef, i think they should add Hot Pork Pie with mushy peas and mint sauce !! I used to have it every saturday when i was young in Leeds market and still enjoy it today.

Posted by Jan on 21/01/2009 18:21:41

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Having watched the first two episodes I cant wait for the final tonight. Great TV. Is sooo frustrating watching that fool of a CEO with his attitudes and ideas right out of thin air (or is that Blue Sky ?)Must be thin air as they dont tally with anything reasonable. He's been difficult and unhelpful towards Heston from day 1 but "would like to be his friend" Who appointed the man ? Have they watched this program ? I assume not or it would'nt have been aired. Sack Him.. Heston was on the wrong lines to start with his menu. Little chef just wont get away with those dishes. As already pointed out LC is a glorified truck stop. Just give customers them better/fresh ingredients. Less but higher quality. Clean up the restaurants, give them pans and tell the staff that if things don't change they wont have a job. They complain that Heston and his boys are laughing at them... well that's exactly what they've been doing to Heston. Don't they realise that things cant stay as they are. That's why Heston's there for gods sake. Anyway. Top TV. Good luck Heston and sack Peglar. (if they haven't already)

Posted by Stuart Green on 21/01/2009 17:12:40

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I agree with several of the comments the CEO and his team are well out of touch with customers. I think they should all go and run a resturant for a week working the same hours as their managers do for the same pay their manangers get, the managers can have the week off. Heston I love the look for your food, just a shame I cannot afford to come and eat at your resturant to see how it should be done

Posted by Jane on 21/01/2009 17:04:48

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Hi again, this is my second comment. I've read all the other comments and watched the second episode. Have my thoughts changed? Not so much. I agree with Heston and those who are pointing at the publicity angle. If anything else its Heinz Salad Cream all over again. Was it the same PR company who advised Ian Peglar on this new strategy? If you remember Heinz announced they were going to remove Heinz Salad Cream from the market due to falling sales. There was a sudden surge in demand as the public stood by an iconic product. Demand doubled. Heinz relented and it's still on the supermarket shelves today. I'm sure you would agreed there is a similarity here as to what Pegler is trying to achieve? However! Heinz Salad Cream was/is a good solid quailty product. LC's not. It's a tired chain of road side transport cafes with curtains. And no disrepect so transport cafes - they are what they are and not trying to be anything different, in some cases offering good quality healthy meals not jsut chips. If Heston is right, in that Little Chef is using this a saviour through increased publicity by trying to increase public support by knocking back a 3 starred Michlin Chef, then maybe the next series should be Big Boss Little Boss. Three programs where the a leader of a successful business with a brand and reputation known globally takes an under performing CEO of a dated poor quality company on its last legs and shows them how to be successfull leader and visonary. Any suggestion who would be the big boss and who the little boss?

Posted by jeff in harrow on 21/01/2009 15:20:53

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Loving the show, what a shame the CEO is an absolute idiot, had he actually helped Heston instead of just nicking his ideas for a sly revamp of his own, this could have really worked. It just proved that the bloke doesn't want anything other than the telly publicity when he flatly refused Heston's request for his breakfast to be rolled out in 3 or 4 other Little Chefs with a couple of weeks. If I was Heston, I'd tell him to shove it where the sun don't shine and walk away. Let them go down the pan along with the many others which will undoubtedly be going that way, but through no fault of their own. Being involved with this may be actually harm Heston's own reputation.

Posted by The Witches Cat on 21/01/2009 12:51:31

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I feel so sorry for Heston having to put up with not enough support from the top when he is putting his heart and soul into helping Little Chef progress..... We all know that the British public like good old english food but don't we think that its about time people spread their wings and tried new things...they might just like them! It doesn't help either having small minded peeople working in the kitchens....lets hope tonight we see the support from both sides to make this work. Come on Heston!

Posted by Suzanna on 21/01/2009 10:18:09

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OH MY GOD, what can i say are the board members old cast from the Office, what a bunch of out of touch loosers, Heston is amazing and i feel for him that these idiots have no idea how to run a large company and to me it does look like a marketing ploy, they're asking for what he's famous for but he knows thats not what the general public want, and please blue sky thinking common get a life!!!!! If the Olympic Breakfast and everything else they sell is what the Little Chef customers want then why oh why is Little Chef in trouble, think people, i know for one i never go into one and would rather have a sandwich from M&S!!!!

Posted by George on 21/01/2009 10:07:05

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Great idea improving quality, although the CEO and board are the ones that need changing. Little Chef has a place somewhere between the service station sandwich and the all day pub. It really felt as if the staff didn't want the change and were unaware of the situation the business was in. I hope it works as LC is a great place to stop when driving the A roads of this country.

Posted by Dan on 21/01/2009 08:58:15

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It looks to me almost as if the Little Chef boss wants the whole thing to fail - get Heston to produce a new fancy menu with food that Little Chef customers are never going to want to eat, have the thing fail dismally with a big public outcry and lots of publicity, then more publicity when they announce they're abandoning it all and going back to their good old menu that all the public love. Did he think he could get away with that and nobody would see through it? Perhaps Heston has outwitted him - I loved the look on his face on tonight's show when he was asking for the camera to be switched off! Will be interesting to see how it turns out in the last show tomorrow.

Posted by Paul on 21/01/2009 00:42:46

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Having visited several Little Chefs over the years I have found most are not very clean, some are absolutly minging, with the number of staff standing around I think they could keep the places clean.The decoration is tatty and maintainance is non existant.What is it with the coffee? The filter coffee is brown sandy water,and the cappuchino is white frothy water.Ian Peglar has no idea how to run a food business and I think bringing in Heston was a cynical move by a man totally out of his depth. The brief given to Heston was doomed to fail as Ian Peglar seems to have no idea of his target customer.Little Chef is a glorified transport cafe. Ther are a great many truckers stops that serve good freshly cooked food at realistic prices that are clean and make good coffee. I only go into a Little Chef these days when I am desperate and my heart sinks as I walk in as there is always something wrong be it the grot coffee to getting dirty cuttlery to there being no lock on the toilet door.I will make a trip to Popham as I would like to experience their "flagship" store. I also look forward to one day visiting The Fat Duck. Keep up the good work Heston, more power to your test tube!

Posted by susa on 21/01/2009 00:39:27

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Lets start by saying i think this is a great idea to try and save little chef from going down the pan,I worked for them on and of for about 15 years and the buisness went down the pan,not have in any really fresh food always got to me. The problem i found was its not just the food on the menu but the management are to blame they are stuck in the dark ages and dont like change,all of there chefs need up dateing to make them more modern and move with the times. I now work in a transport cafe behind the little chef were i worked for 4 years and now cook and serve fresh home made dishes fresh veg, pork, beef, lamb and all home made cakes.The best sellers are how brekfasts and mixed grills and salads.We do the most lovely fresh salads as well,this is what little chef needs tradition in there foods put back. Heston i think is looking in the right direction but it needs a team that belive in it,its all right sitting around a table thinking about it but doing it is a nother matter.So if this does not work i do not know what will some of my best times were working for chef But and i mean But chef never look after the ones that care so anything could happen. The best thing for the chain is to let people work for them that care,take pride in what they do,let Heston or some other chef which ever, put the sparkle back in the places. UPDATE GO FORWARD AND LETS NOT LOSE ONE OF THE BRITISH ICONS OFF OUR ROADS.

Posted by Anita on 21/01/2009 00:29:15

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watched the 2nd program with Heston trying to help the little chef personaly with the attitude of the person running little chef think Heston simply is waisting his time. If i had a business and some one offered me help in the form of Heston I would gladly welcom the knowledge of such an amaizing and talented chef ( is the man mad) it also opens your eyes to how poor the catering skills the little chef guys have that are cooking your meals and i would now think twice prior to setting foot is such a place.

Posted by Alex Gardiner on 21/01/2009 00:24:47

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There seems to be a lot of people on here resisting any form of change- we are regulars they say, leave our breakfasts alone. But LC would not be empty and in trouble if they had regulars who enjoy the food! They have to cook something the rest of the population wants to eat or it will be all over for good. The few loyal customers who like to eat disgusting, soggy greasy fried potatoes might get upset but heck the rest of the nation may finally be able to stop for some decent nosh!

Posted by likesfood on 20/01/2009 22:52:41

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I thought at first that the CEO of Little Chef was quite visionary; asking HB to redesign the menu of a British institution was quite brave.... then I saw the programme. Ian Pegler is quite the worst CEO I have witnessed. How Heston kept his temper I have no idea. The man is duplicitous, does not have clue about catering and should go back to his overalls sweeping the floors at M&S. The programme so far has spelled out exactly why Little Chef has gone down the toilet - poor quality food, staff stuck in the dark ages through lack of leadership and training, and no respect for the customers' palettes. We're not all lorry drivers who want chips for breakfast Mr Pegler. Heston should have taken the big eejit to Tebay Services on the A1 - that would have opened his eyes. 'Blue sky thinking' my backside, he wouldn't know blue sky if it bit him on the bum - and anyway, it's useless new Labour phrase that means nothing other than hot air. He's more suited to pushing paper in a Local Government Cleansing department than running a mass-catering operation. Oh, and he is arrogant as well, but that's a minor niggle. I hope you succeed Heston, but I am not putting any money on it. xx

Posted by Lizzie R on 20/01/2009 22:35:50

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Heston you seem to be fighting a losing battle, Ian Peglar is incredibly stuck in his own ways and truely has no clue on how to run a successful business. I dearly hope that the people attempting to make scrambled eggs (an awful attempt!) are not a true representation of what Britain has become. In response to a few of the ridiculous comments already posted, Heston is helping a dying company regain a slight bit of dignaty! He's not pushing "fancy food" he's giving people an option at eating perfectly decent food at affordable prices, not asking everyone to eat in his restaurant; which lets be honest we would all love to given the chance! It's nothing to do with "class" divide and for those who believe that their ignorance is blinding them from seeing someone who actually cares about a British icon from going under like Woolworths. For the chap who stated about the "boil in the bag egg" it's a darn sight better than a microwaved piece of rubber!! Heston, you've done brilliantly with the little support you've been given. I'm 100% behind you.

Posted by Lorna on 20/01/2009 22:29:14

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muiramas was spot on. Little Chef have absolutely no intention of changing what they do, they are in this just to try and get some free marketing and headlines that say Heston has redesigned our menu. The CEO symbolises all that is WRONG with British business, self delusional, doesn't really know what his customers want, afraid of any real change and uninspiring as a leader. The only justice is that Little Chef have really shown themselves up in the show. Heston has shown real integrity and admits when he cocks up, listens to feedback and actually takes it on board, whereas Ian has hidden agendas and you feel he is constantly scheming behind the scenes with his 'yes men/women' management team. This was clearly shown by the expression on his face when Heston made a surprise visit to discuss the menu that was already being rolled out that Ian conveniently forgot to mention to Heston at a previous meeting. The only ray of sunshine was the cook Heston adopted from little chef, to teach the new menu to, ok she is no chef but she was a great personality and willing to give things a try despite bitchy remarks of the other Little Chef manager. All in all great programme on the failure of British business and its unwillingness to change and adapt. If little chef want to survive they must sack te management team and in particular Ian.

Posted by Samuel on 20/01/2009 22:28:41

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I don't really know what to say? over 20 years in the industry. Come on- Mr Little Chef-Blue Skies Industry!! Quarter your menu, re-furb, clean, quality ingredients!!! doesn't take Einstien. Let me know if you need some help? Cheaper than Hestn!!!

Posted by Carol on 20/01/2009 22:23:10

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The reality is that 20 years ago the British public lived a completely different life. Most of us holidayed in this counry, many people had a job for life, there was not the choice of food available that there is today and many people were financially less well off. Despite their being a downturn right now the majority of people have improved their standards of life, finances and standards. Sales reps used to drive mondeo's, now its Audi's or BMW's. My point is the world has moved on but Little Chef have not adapted at all. Whilst many of us have a warm feeling inside for this "British Institution" I really wonder how many of us would want to stop at these little red cafe's at the side of the road.

Posted by Ash on 20/01/2009 22:21:49

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Having watched the first two programmes I'm really enjoying this. I think the correct approach would be to considerably cut down the menu and then try to increase quality with the dishes that remain. I think people are looking for quality comfort food at a Little Chef not a watered down Fat Duck experience. I'd like to see an increased number of dishes involving fresh fruit and vegetables which would energise the traveller and someclassics like a really good burger which I would have thought would fit the bill and the cooking methods available. It's a very interesting and difficult brief that Heston has and I'm looking forward to seeing how it turns out.

Posted by PeteS on 20/01/2009 22:12:35

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let little chef continue to carry losing money then it can be burried alongside other rubbish companys like woolworths

Posted by anon on 20/01/2009 22:10:00

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I could not believe Ian Peglars attitude,Little chef is on its knees with the menu changed as often as Ians suit.The management team of LC need a makeover and some a haircut-who invested in that bunch? Go Heston go!!

Posted by patrick on 20/01/2009 22:09:25

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Hi there, my husband and I have been watching Big Chef Little Chef and are absolutely disgusted by the attitude of Little Chef staff from senior management down. Little Chef food has been crap for years and they have not appreciated the culinary skills of someone like Heston. They call themselves a restaurant and staff say they are not cooks! They have trouble even using a microwave and yet they call themselves a restaurant. Heston has been patient and professional and we cannot understand the awful attitude of Ian Peddington who is a total idiot and portrays himself as such. I would email Little Chef myself however I did a few years ago to complain about food we were served and they did not bother to reply! Brilliant documentary Channel 4 - keep up the good work. Linda Martin

Posted by Linda Martin on 20/01/2009 21:59:33

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look this guy is totally without talent. this is a rare case of smoke wiyhout fire. he bends with the wind and this litlle chef escapade is a case of the blind leading the blind and ignorant i'm switching to stars on sunday

Posted by pathetic on 20/01/2009 21:54:02

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Why is everyone on here are so convinced Jamie Oliver would have done a better job? Trust me the regulars and narrow minded would still be moaning. I think Hestons model looks good and the majority of comments from those who have been seem positive

Posted by JM on 20/01/2009 21:39:25

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LEAVE THE OLYMPIC ALONE. I am/was a regular user of the Little Chef in Popham, once every two weeks stopping for my favourite Olympic breakfast. After being on the road for 2 hours this was my treat. I stopped at Popham the morning they opened following the refurbishment, in between filming. The decor was a surprise, needed doing, BUT why go back to the 50's diner with bench seats, where you get jogged when other people behind you sit or move, not forgetting the dear little ones jumping up and down? and who wants to sit at a bar to eat, perhaps these are for the billy no mates brigade? Should have kept to the normal table and chairs, looks more like cattle pens now. As regards the Olympic, this has been bastardised, choice now of beans or tomatoes, before you got both, and REMOVED the fried potatoes completely....not even an option as an extra. Gone are the family of small mushrooms, replaced with one big one, ugh. (but the price has remained the same!) I have not been back, I now stop at another Little Chef who still serves the standard Olympic. I did complain on site and wrote to Little Chef, but nil response. As a customer, I should have the option to select what I want to eat and not be dictated, take it or leave it attitude. But seeing how the MD talks to people, I should'nt be surprised. I agree with everyone has said, so nuf said then. Not the right chef for this change. Too fancy. Jamie would have been a better choice, more down to earth and the peoples favourite. What has Heston for the british public? Most of us mere mortals can't afford to eat at his place and most don't want fancy food either. Not from a road side cafe.

Posted by Alan on 20/01/2009 17:47:41

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The premise of this series is simple. A PR / Spin company has advised Ian Pelgar and his out of shape, frumpy board members to hire the most unsuitable haute chef in the country, in the knowledge that both are totally aloof and out of touch, but that ultimately the public will take heart, empathize with the staff and customers of Little Chef. At the same time, bring in a production company to cover the events, then sell it to prime time TV. Little Chef customers would never eat in The Fat Duck or vice versa. Its about a class divide - clearly illustrated by the discussion between Heston's pretentious chefs, and the Little Chef's intellectually outclassed manager.

Posted by muiramas on 20/01/2009 17:06:19

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I have to say I did enjoy the first installment last night of Big Chef Little Chef. Heston was spot on when he gave his impression that Little Chef, a generation ago, was a place that you would go to for real treat on on your way to the seaside for a traditional British holiday. I agree that the menu was too expansive and tried to cover every base. He is right. The sign of a restaurant in trouble. Mr. Ramsey has highlighted this on many of his Kitchen Nightmare programmes. I think we all agree that Mr. Peglar should be called Mr. Pedlar. Journeying trader of small wares. With as much business acumen and DEL BOY!!! The guy had not a clue. Why wouldn't he share the business model? How could Heston even start to design a new menu without knowing the peramiters in which to work? I know Heston uses all of his five senses to create amazing food so resrict his senses when it comes to business. I could see where Heston was coming from with his dishes, on a personal note I would have enjoyed trying them but I do have an educated palett. It could be considered that both Heston and Del both made fundemantal errors. There needs to be considerable market research in what the customer wants. Not what you think they want. If this had beed done I'm sure the results would have made both thrie decisions for future direction clearer. I would very much like to see an outlet that provided good old English fayre. Cottage Pie, fresh veg, a simple fry up based on quality not quantity, beef stew and dumplings, fresh soups, crumble. Not a burger or chipo in sight.

Posted by Jeff in Harrow on 20/01/2009 16:31:02

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What a load of rubbish the first of the series was! It made Heston look arrogant, the CEO of the Little Chef look dumb and Hestons staff way above their station and then riducule the Little Chef staff. Heston kept banging on about fresh ingredients but then in the next breath tampers with the flavours. The concept menu was a joke and completely off the mark. The only thing you could say about the programme is arguing and making people look small is "entertainment" This is not a serious foodie programme! Also Heston had better watch out how he is driving I always thought you were supposed to keep your eyes on the road and not who is in the back of the car

Posted by Shelagh on 20/01/2009 16:05:08

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I agree that LC is in desperate need of a makeover, both to the d?cor and the menu. I watched, with interest and much shouting at the TV, the first episode last night. The LC CEO, could well have been the prototype for Ricky Gervais' David Brent. Total lack of charisma and so far out of touch with his customers and how to run a food related business that I would question the validity of his position. Granted Heston, probably wouldn't be the obvious choice for the task of fixing the LC menu, but hey conflict drives the narrative! Channel 4 are about making compelling viewing, to increase their share of available viewers, Pegler is about raising LC's public profile and Heston just got himself a pretty good slice of prime publicity for his Fat Duck. So all in all a raging success I'd say.

Posted by Alex Adams on 20/01/2009 15:03:14

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Is that tubby little Ian Peglar, the same Ian Peglar that was made redundant by Little Chef in 1994, when the business was in the hands of its original owners, Forte? On last nights performance that door maybe opening again?

Posted by Jubilee Pancake on 20/01/2009 14:56:32

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Heston ... loved the show and what a challenge you have. You're complicating things Heston! Keep things simple, but excellent quality.... 'Farm Shop' standards - homemade produce. We want to see decent Toast, made from freshly made bread... thick slices, real butter, bowls of real Seville orange marmalade and jams ... home-made locally. Locally sourced Bacon and hams ... make that Bacon Butty fashionable... something to look forward to on your journey. You need people to plan to stop at Little Chef.. just to have one of those butties!! Source all the meat locally... farm shops etc... tell people where the produce is sourced from.. how many miles has it travelled.. we love all that. Local free range Eggs....Healthy options, cereals, yoghurts, fresh fruit... English tomatoes when they are in season... Seasonal local veg Proper tea and coffee.... in pots, milk in jugs, sugar in bowls and no sachets of tomato ketchup which drive you crazy! Keep main courses simple ... these diners are looking for tasty, wholesome, good quality, food.. local produce... local meats... A big griddle would be great.... sizzling bacon... eggs.... smelling good, looking good.... and giving the place a buzz.... its great to be able to see your food being cooked, smell it etc fresh out the pan... not been sat in a warming tray for hours! Drop fried bread...hash brown things... totally unhealthy and not nice! Everything about Little Chef is tired and 80s.... You have a huge task on your hands... the name, the decor... and even some of the people! Decor .. warm colours, clean, stylish but easy and comfortable.... and lets have some music to give the place some atmosphere... Radio 2 to cater for all! It gives that homely warm feeling... just what you want when you've been driving for hours... And most of all... make sure the prices are affordable and represent good quality for the money... people will pay for something that is good. Sorry but have to say....look at Gordon Ramsay... he gets it right every time.. keeping it simple. Teresa and Ken

Posted by Teresa and Ken on 20/01/2009 14:36:31

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Little Chef should remain, as it has done in the past as a British Icon, however I feel that this might not be possible. Like many restaurants and pubs around Britain they desperately try to provide cultural dishes to our many international visitors, but what happened to making these visitors taste a truly British menu? Little Chef has got an ideal captive market but they just need to revitalise their brand and get in touch with their consumers. I think they personally they have got the wrong chef in as he is well known for wacky, off the wall ideas that I know no standard person would go for. The menu that they have is vast and a losing a few dishes will aid them in building up the brand again, but I think the essential thing to remember is better quality food is needed. Also like some one else commented, I think its time little chef got rid of packet food and microwave goodies and go back to basics by having qualified chefs/cooks in a proper equipped kitchen, and all meals are freshly made to order. I know that this might take a little longer than it currently does, but I know that I and many others would prefer a freshly cooked meal rather than a microwave meal! As for the prices they have to be more competitive with the supermarket cafes and McDonalds, which are all usually very busy through out the day. The staff seemed to be some what long serving which is a credit to any modern day company to achieve such staff loyalty. However, Little Chef need to provide their staff members with hope that the brand will survive and given them more challenging roles, which I feel will only come or be achievable as the restaurants get busier. Finally a face lift in many of there restaurants is desperately needed and might be the key to success. Unfortunately some times we have to spend a bit of money to make money!

Posted by Ash on 20/01/2009 13:35:20

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I have been to the popham little chef. It is a truely pleasurable experience these days. the new format is erfect and very well balanced.

Posted by George on 20/01/2009 13:09:59

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LITTLE CHEF my last meal there was reheated in a microwave, frozen in the middle and thrown on a plate. It does need to be British, Cookable quickly and not just microwaved/ reheated up. Qulaity fare at a reasonable price. They are now competing with pubs open all day as well as the big motorway service stations.

Posted by Jon C on 20/01/2009 12:56:54

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Heston's menu choices were totally off the mark and not right for exsisting customers or potential customers for Little Chef. Jamie Oliver or Gordan Ramsay would have done a better job of this. The Little Chef CEO needs to get some PR lessons or simply keep his mouth firmly closed as he clearly has issues! Why agree to do a TV show about it if you're then not going to cooperate with Heston!? Well Free publicity maybe?! Local produce sounds like a good way to go too, with traditional meals with local suppliers.

Posted by Jay P on 20/01/2009 12:54:56

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People dont wont posh food like that when they stop off at little chef. they want a burger and chips! traditional!! David in edinburgh lol

Posted by David on 20/01/2009 11:54:32

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Oh Dear. Little Chef and Big Chef - How thoroughly irritating throughout was Ian Peglar and his Blue Sky thinking, and Out of the Box marketing buzz words not to mention his menu ideas for his badly equipped Motorway 'restaurants'. He was equally as off the mark and out of touch when it came to his target market. Has this man, who is being paid silly money with noughts on the end, even considered his target market, or attempted talking to them instead of clearly looking down on them - "Womens Food" indeed. All Little Chef needs is a return to good value food, that is cooked correctly - Heston is right with Quality not quantity, but this is not the environment to be serving dry ice over chocolate icecream, or tea smoked salmon in boil in the bag scrambled eggs. Good Old Fashioned British Food, cooked correctly in a proper kitchen - a menu suitable for breakfast, lunch and tea that can be made quickly. This, by the way, is not Hestons fault. The blame of this is all down to Peglars wayfully off the mark brief (or what there was of one). With no GP and budget to work to, how on early could Heston be expected to come up with a suitable menu? - He was given complete freedom to do whatever he wanted effectively with no restraints. Heston Blumenthal is an experimental chef, and was clearly brought in for the 'celebrity' element and the hope that this TV programme would help market Little Chef. Perhaps Peglar should have considered his Chef - and chosen someone who is more in touch with the type of customers that Little Chef attracts -a little more carefully. Jamie Oliver is without a doubt the most down to earth chef on our tv screens at the moment - and would have brought originality and honest to goodness grub - but that would have, of course, meant considering Peglars target market again, rather than considering his pay cheque and his own personal pr .

Posted by LJC on 20/01/2009 11:54:28

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I live outside of the UK & used to love stopping off at Little Chef as soon as I got back - it used to be my first decent cup of tea in ages. No question that the food quality (and tea quality unfortunately - do they re-use the bags nowadays?) has greatly deteriorated in recent years. I was sorry to hear so many Little Chef's were closing down, as I consider them to be a great British institution, but I can't say I was surprised. It's not only the food quality that's deteriorated. Heston is brave to take on the challenge despite opposition from the LC managing director (what was his name again? what the hell is women's food?!?! Does he mean salads or something?? Men and children eat salads too..), who seems to think he's doing Heston a favour by letting him try to improve the LC menu! Wake up mate! You're lucky you have Heston to help you! Heston should remember to improve the quality of the existing traditions instead of trying to get non-foodies to eat his creations, though, however appealing they may be to the more modern (adventurous) pallet! Callum below has a good point - push local produce! Somebody dig out a menu from 25 years ago and recreate it! I don't need pasta from a Little Chef! Probably too late to put in my 2 cents worth, but Heston, if you ever need a taster, I'm available!

Posted by James on 20/01/2009 09:39:58

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A very interesting programme. I fail to see how Heston can influance such an arrogant person as Pegler. The very man who would not be drawn on his GP or Labour margins. If Heston was not given the very basic information that ANY half decent caterer needs to work with, then why should anyone be surprised if this venture fails. Pegler set him up for failure from the very start with his "blue sky", "explosive", "out of the box" management speak which, by the way, went out of date at the same time he should have collected his bus pass. Any good MD or CEO in this business will not only know his budget/target margins, but more importantly, know what his/her actual margins are and would not be afraid to share the information. Looking at the bunch of "senior" people sitting around that table was an absolute classic, they ALL looked at him as if he had just landed from another planet, classic. These people will never "get it" and quite rightly, we should leave them to run what's left of the foresaken, sad brand in to the ground and maybe we can finally say good-bye to the "fat man in white" who, lets face it, has lived on borrowed time for at least the last 20 years, and owes his demise to the "non-chefs" who ran the business for so long and who's only claim to fame will be that they killed the "little chef".

Posted by Les Martin on 20/01/2009 08:51:48

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Great program, but frustrating for us as well as Heston! Good try, but I don't think people want that kind of food in a Little Chef. If I wanted to eat good food like what was suggested i'd go to suitable restaurant, not drive down the M6 get stuck in traffic, then drive down to the next junction just to return home. People are there for a break from driving, can't spend to long and need some decent food but basic to revitalise them, and at a good price in a short time. Perhaps just a face lift to the food? But the general appearance of the restaurants need improving overall, as could be seen from the program. Also the service we have experienced in the last few Little Chefs have made us walk out and get a sandwich instead! I think there has to be carefull conisderation to who actually uses Littel Chef reguarly rather than people who think the suggested food is good, but would never go, i.e. familys travelling on a budget e.t.c. Still an entertaining program to watch!

Posted by Jerry on 20/01/2009 08:15:51

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No-one doubts Heston Blumenthal's genius with food but he's completely, in my humble opinion, the wrong man for this job. Table cloths in a Little Chef; it's a joke. Yes, the food looked disgusting and that needs to be addressed. Travel weary drivers want good quality STANDARD British food for a reasonable price. Oysters - you're having a laugh. Way OTT FOR THE GIVEN ENVIRONMENT. Pleaase come back down to earth Mr Blumenthal. Have a word with Jamie Oliver, someone who wants to put good, nutritious, delicious, healhty, tasty food back on our plates. Sam Hinton, Cardiff

Posted by Sam Hinton on 20/01/2009 07:42:50

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Just watched this programme. I remember working for Little Chef many years ago. I thought the food that he choose for the new menu was rubbish!! People want Britain food like good old tradional bangers and mash. I say scap the crap food that was on the programme like the cheap burgers and get locally sourced produce, which you know will be quality. People go for quality not fancy food, especially with Little Chef as its known for it quick food. I remember serving up tradional fish and chips and I put that extra effort in to make sure it was cooked perfect and displayed on the plate nice. My customers were always happy!!! Meals like tongue hotpot is a no go area I would never eat that. I would say that the management for Little Chef are facing difficult times as for the down turn at the moment, but if he can produce a menu, which offers quality food and realises a new improved menu then I am sure it will do great. I am always for supporting companies and employee's and we dont need another company to suffer due to the down turn. Source locally which = farmers in buisness= quality= a improved menu= success for Little Chef.

Posted by callum on 20/01/2009 00:02:27

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I like so many others have fond memories of going to the little chef as a treat with mum and dad on the way to somewhere. We would beg to get up early so we could stop for breakfast on the way! Now i drive often for work and can't think of anything worse than having to stop and eat an olympic breakfast. Whatever Heston comes up with has to be an improvement can't wait to eat some exciting, delicious food in a little chef sometime soon. I will keep my fingers crossed!

Posted by ahungrydriver on 19/01/2009 23:53:21

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NEVER GIVE UP HESTON!!! Your cookery is an inspiration to us all why cant people appreciate good food. Love the menu, greatly improved and from an unexperienced chef to an experienced chef; i could understand the fustrating time you spent on it when everything must require absouloute total perfection. YOU ARE RIGHT - Technicially. You came up with traditional classicis shame Britain is ready for it. I would of come worked for you if i had known you wanted to take on such a massive task. PUSH HARDER AND HARDER AND NEVER LET YOURSELF BE HAPPY WITH MEDIAOCROTIE. - "signed" a devoted lover of changing how we eat.

Posted by Skywalker on 19/01/2009 23:45:59

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I am a frequent visitor to Little Chef's and think the new menu is a great improvement. I now find that I have genuine choice and do not have to stick to just one or two favourites. Despite the standards imposed by LC I have found that meals are cooked better in some restaurants than others. In my experience the staff in most restaurants are friendly and happy to please. Some restaurants are definitely in need of attention with furnishing and toilets deteriorating. I hope that Little Chef will be able to get back to making a profit and be able to deal with these issues. This new menu gives them a chance.

Posted by MikeW on 19/01/2009 23:33:04

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Do the executives of LC eat any of the food that the company produces. They have a failing company, so ask a top chef to produce a new menu, knowing the kind of food he specialises in, and then complain about what he produces.

Posted by charliecat on 19/01/2009 23:30:30

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I CAN NOT BELIVE HESTON AND HIS VIEWS! WE WANT CHEAP BRITISH FOOD, NO EGG AND BACON ICECREAM AND WE WANT IT GOOD VALUE, I WAS SHOCKED AT THIS PROGRAM AND I NOW FEEL SO LITTLE OF HESTON COZ HE NOS NOUT!

Posted by lovesbritishfood on 19/01/2009 23:19:42

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Ian Peglar seems so utterly out of touch, he doesn't appear to have spoken to his (loyal) staff about what their customers want, or to have spoken to the customers themselves. Heston is not a management consultant, he is Britain's most talented chef, and as such I think was a very odd choice - again Ian Peglar's decision - why not choose say Nigel Slater who cooks very simple but delicious food - that would better match the 'grill' senario. 'Poncy' food isn't what I would expect from Little Chef...I think of tatty furniture, dirty restaurants and dried up food. We never eat 'on the motorway' but drive off and find something that's not part of a chain. Wouldn't it be super though, if Little Chef was great, and served quality produce in clean chic surroundings? Heston, I thought you were very understanding and I saw a side of you I didn't expect - I was further impressed (your TV Christmas meal blew us away) well done, I hope it all comes good...we'll be watching you tomorrow night!

Posted by The Hen on 19/01/2009 23:17:16

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Food is not about proving how much you are worth, its about eating because you have to and enjoying it as much as you can. simple. get over the pretencious stuff heston. you've already made your money.

Posted by andy n on 19/01/2009 23:04:00

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By coincidence, my 5 year old daughter and I ate in a Little Chef this evening.It was at 5 O' clock and the place was empty. I worked in one of the restaurants 20 years ago and have always had a soft spot for them (great big breakfasts and those slightly synthetic but superb Jubilee pancakes). Having said that, I've probably eaten in them only 3 times in the past 10 years. I was going to order a pile of fried and griddled stuff, especially having noted that the sausages are outdoor reared, when I spotted the lamb dishes and beef stew with dumplings etc. This was unexpected and I went for the beef stew. Considering the price - and let's not get carried away, this isn't Due South or some other top notch restaurant, it's Little Chef - it was pretty good, and there was loads of other items on the menu that I'd have happily eaten. The Little Chef 'favourites' all seem to have had a bit of a lift too. The big problem however, was the overriding feeling that the staff couldn't give a monkeys. For dessert I had a cafetiere of coffee - and they make a right big deal about that with big promo posters encouraging you to buy a 'cafetiere' of coffee - and an apple pie with ice cream. The coffee was full of gritty coffee and the apple pie was frozen in the middle. I didn't bother mentioning it to the waitress as I fear she would have looked at me like I was weird. My daughter enjoyed her meal but I feel she would have liked it more had we been somewhere with some other people in it. "It's probably busy during the day" she said. I doubted it.

Posted by Paul Wafer on 19/01/2009 23:03:11

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I have watched half the programme, Heston appears to think that joe public go to little chef for top notch posh food. The average joe loves his breakfast and his burgers. The only reason I haven't been to little chef or years is the price. Hence why I call it little thief.

Posted by david ketley on 19/01/2009 22:54:29

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Very entertaining show thankyou!!! Advice to Ian Pegler: Your idea of bringing Hester Blumenthal is a bad one, based on a false premise -that Little Chef customers want to eat something different. Of course it would be a brilliant idea if the aim was to stir up the media into making this programme, give you huge coverage (though not always good coverage!) and to get us, your once faithful customers to write in and tell you what we want. It’s not rocket science. Treat the customer with respect. It doesn’t matter how nice your staff are if the restaurant is a mess and you offer poor quality food. Don’t make them sit on broken seats in seedy run down restaurants offering appalling coffee and dried up tasteless chicken. Bring back those Little Chef touches %u2013 mats - laying the tables, free babyfood, fresh fruit. Use good quality ingredients - at present we are being served rubbish quality. Start with good quality bread. Perhaps warm the rolls. The smell of warm bread everyone know is great. Heat the plates %u2013 after three minutes the food is cold! Free refills of coffee at reasonable prices If I was to run Little Chefs. I would concentrate on the breakfasts, they are top favourite. They always win - remember Dads do a lot of the driving and they are the ones who will drive into your car parks. Toasted sandwiches and baked potatoes with good selection of lovely toppings. Soups and really lovely bread rolls. Stuffed pancakes, ice creams and Knickbockerglories or fresh fruit. Toasted teacakes for afternoons. Scrap the rest of the menu including the bloody scrambled eggs. If you can’t make them well DON’T DO THEM. ACTION Invest in upgrading the dining rooms. Small menus of food that the chefs can cook very well. don’t forget the children and babies. Much better quality ingredients.

Posted by Fizz Lewis on 19/01/2009 22:48:27

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It is no surprise that little chef are in the position they are in with a ceo and senior management team like that, sounds like that need gordon and heston teamed together to sort that boss out properly, oh and chuck in alan sugar for measure. Not that the ceo warrants any of their help. Typical poor boss, terrible pr for him personally and LC. Was really impressed with heston and hadn't heard about him before, fat duck sounds excellent, apart from price! The little chef needs more then the menu change it needs shop re fit to brighten the place up and staff need to smile! I would rather grab a marks sandwich that go in one in a little chef from now on. Not all PR is good PR Mr little chef!

Posted by Matt on 19/01/2009 22:42:28

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me and my partner we had a full english 2 egg sausage bacon hashbrowns beans toast and it was excelent for the price on boxing day 2008 at emsworth on the a27 hampshire yhis was my first visite to a little cheff and i would go back any time

Posted by lizsjd on 19/01/2009 22:33:48

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i really enjoyed the program,mr.blumenthal is one of the best chefs around, every one talks about britishnes but no one is prepered to change. the big guy wants a little chef to do well,but all he's intresting is profit.most of their restaurants needs a massive change,but he's not prepered to listen. mr.blumenthal needs to come down a little.i know he's got a repution to keep.he' right the menu needs changing, the kithen needs changing,the staff needs to lern how to cook without looking at the menu to see what it looks like they need to lern health and safty, putting first class chefs with cafe serving staff was not fair. little need smaller menu with british food only. i felt that little chefs directors were not prepered to listen,they got no concept of good food. also mr.blumenthal needs to lower his sights a bit,i think he's the right man to pull them out of the mess they are in. A.Farrugia

Posted by anthony farrugia on 19/01/2009 22:30:43

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We just watched Heston Blumenthal's attempts to save Little Chef. As a child it used to be a real treat to go to a Little Chef on the way home from family holidays, especially to have a freshly made pancake for dessert. However we never go now because over the years the food has become entirely frozen and microwaved (even the pancakes! How hard can it be to make a fresh pancake?)We also found that every little thing we had was charged as an 'extra' so a family having a breadbun each added hugely to our bill! The food became greasy and tasteless and like Heston we have taken to buying a sandwich and eating it in a layby!I can't help thinking that all Heston needs to do is take the key elements and favourites from the old menu and cook them properly with fresh ingredients, away from a microwave. Good luck Heston!

Posted by Julie on 19/01/2009 22:30:13

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What Little Chef needs is a good clean up,with staff that look clean,tidy and interested in serving . Never mind the different menu,the current menu could be acceptable.But spend some money on better ingredients, everything about it now is cheap and tasteless. ( except the price)

Posted by wko on 19/01/2009 22:30:04

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The original little chef food looked disgusting, I can relate to Heston and his chef Mates being revolted by the taste of some of that food, though they did come across a bit snobbish. It’s amazing how many people eat that sub standard rubbish and enjoy it, they are so used to eating low quality produce and don’t want change. Though it seems many Brits have wised up, indicating the decline in business. Personally I would be happier with and simpler menu with better quality produce without all that smoke and mirrors stuff but then that wouldn’t be Heston.

Posted by Jimmy One Face on 19/01/2009 22:29:43

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Wrong man for the job, sorry but this really won't work. Jamie Oliver - possibly yes, Heston Blumenthal -No way.This mans on cloud nine, but i hope some good comes out of this for Little Chef, God knows they need it.

Posted by Mike White on 19/01/2009 22:29:25

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We live just 5 miles from Popham so tried Heston's "Little Chef" recently. My grown-up children opted for the Olympic breakfast and enjoyed it, although the option of wholemeal toast would have been an improvement. Regretably, that is almost the end of the good news. I opted for the vegetarian option,a claggy same-tasting stew with herby dumplings that were nothing short of unpleasant, an ordeal. The portion was on the small side of small, but in the circumstances that was not a bad thing. The orange juice was fresh, chilled and delicious. Decor/ambiance - much improved, bright, colourful and appealing for adults and children.

Posted by Peter Jenner on 19/01/2009 22:24:14

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You only have to compare the office settings. Little Chef - Dell PC on a cramped desk with a seating position that requires a full makeover. Heston - Apple iMac with a clear desk and room to breath. I once had the notion that I would ride on a motorcycle around each Little Chef and compile a 'Diner's Guide' on which was the best. After going to one Little Chef and being told that the 'omelettes hadn't arrived yet', I changed my view. British 'fast food' cannot be found at Little Chef. The despair is that most British people think current Little Chef food is good. I sincerely hope that Heston wins them over so that I can once again consider my motorcycle ride around Britain.

Posted by Ymugmike on 19/01/2009 22:23:36

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This programme certainly has a few flaws. . . For starters the British public want a meal not a snack on a plate. If your looking for idea's what happened to good old filling foods like. . . Spag Bol Carbonara Casserole Stew Lasagna Burgers Sausage, Egg & Chips Pasta Bake Boiled Bacon Omelet The list goes on, people don't expect or want fancy food in Little Chef they want a nice, filling meal that is not cheap food but good value for money. Until Heston Blumenthal understands this he can churn out as many dishes as he likes, at the end of the day he is not the one who is going to be stopping and eating there unlike us, who need good filling food.

Posted by Jess on 19/01/2009 22:17:51

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We stopped at the Little Chef at Popham on the way back from London to the West Country on New Years Day. The restaurant looked good and I was keen to try the new food, I wasn't disappointed, I had the ox cheeks and it was delicious. Well done for sticking with it Heston. Even though my husband had his usual Olympic Breakfast, he was impressed by the quality of the sausages and bacon and loved the fact that the presentation was better regarding the beans, these were served in a little pot and were not swimming all over the plate. We have since recommended the Popham restaurant to loads of our friends, can't wait to see what they think.

Posted by Boathouse on 19/01/2009 22:17:05

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Just watched the programe and was amazed at how lacking in common sense Heston appeared. Obviously Little chef customers don't want the fancy stuff he serves in his restaurant. He clearly didn't do any form of market research. He, together with his chefs came across as stuck up and lacking in any ability to tackle the task in hand. Felt like an amateur trying to be Gordon Ramsey.

Posted by ben1234 on 19/01/2009 22:15:17

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i think this is a great idea! little chef really needs some help and this could be really good for it. heston is great!

Posted by niamh on 19/01/2009 22:14:44

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Little chef is an institution, I love the breakfasts, I hate the prices I cant pay a tenner for breaky, I hate on the staff bringing my brew before my breakfast or if I ask them to bring it later just forgetting. Its the wrong place for pretentious food, you would have to start a new chain, but this wouldn't work. Punters want fast, fresh, high quality favourites cheap, Pitched slightly above McD's with some healthy options, I think they have the wrong Chef for this job.

Posted by lscc61114 on 19/01/2009 22:13:25

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Heston and his so called chefs should get back to basics themselves instead of trying to create a michelin menu give the public what they want which is decent food at decent prices not boil in a bag egg with mixed tea and salmon. have they aked people what they would like i don't think so

Posted by TC on 19/01/2009 22:12:13

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Big Chef v Little Chef How long did it take before someone decided to ask the customers (past and present) what they want from a Little Chef. I used them for years but the prices went up and up and the quality (generally good) stayed the same. The standard menu at the moment caters for most tastes, it's just the quality and price that needs addressing. Quality needs improving (though the breakfast dishes are OK). The management have got it wrong (not Heston) - the public want simple food, godd quality at an affordable price. No one seems to have asked the public who used to frequent Little Chefs, why they don't eat there any more. Simple or what?

Posted by Paul C on 19/01/2009 22:11:16

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The Executive from Little Chef must be mad to think the food which Heston produces would be succesful in his restaurants. The worst things about Little Chef restaurants is that you feel as if you're interrupting the Staff's socialising with each other when you visit. Secondly - the decor is dated and scruffy. If I were to to to change the fortunes of this change I would drastically refurb the restaurants, retrain the staff in customer service, scale down the menu selection and improve the quality of the ingredients in the most succesful basics, ie the breakfasts and home=made burgers (ie made with real minced steak - from scratch).

Posted by theonlychris on 19/01/2009 22:09:53

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The scrammbled egg and salmon is a great dish, it to me makes scrambled egg more interesting and healthy. Which in my opinion is great food! I have cooked and eaten this dish a few months ago and if i saw this in little chef i would 100% choose it. Heston should have given the dish for free (or a taster) to open the british publics imagination and therefore open there eyes to other dishes on the menu.

Posted by jake green on 19/01/2009 22:09:30

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I would like to try these menus, but I don't know how to find a Little Chef that's open. How do you tell when they are open? I drive past several every week. The big roadside sign is always on - even when the building is in darkness. I've got fed up with seeing the illuminated sign, pulling off the road only to find the place closed. Little Chef could do themselves a simple favour and switch the sign off when they are closed.

Posted by China Blue on 19/01/2009 22:08:44

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I went to the Little Chef in Popham when I heard that Heston has transformed the menu over Christmas. I ordered an omelette and was promptly told there were no omelettes that day - and was offered scrambled egg instead! Surely if they have eggs they can do either? Not sure how much it has actually changed - apart from the talking toilets!

Posted by geggs on 19/01/2009 22:08:24

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What a bizarre brief from Ian Pegler!! He was asking Heston to deliver a menu that is completely opposite to what the public are wanting. He was setting heston up for a fall as LC customers dont want tea flavoured scrambled eggs. In my opinion Heston is right about the quality issue though - I would like quality rather than gimmicks. Great scrambled eggs, quality bacon on muffins is unbeatable for example

Posted by Timmy on 19/01/2009 22:06:54

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We ate at the Popham Little Chef a few weeks back and loved it - go Heston!! Finally decent food on the motorway.

Posted by jim on 19/01/2009 22:04:24

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Thank God. Lifesaving change to Little Chef. At last - food I love to eat, rather than have to eat, from a roadside restaurant.

Posted by JLL on 19/01/2009 22:04:16

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just watched this weeks program he has got it wrong, little chef is all about fry ups, night ponsie fish dishes who would goto little chef expecting a 5 star hotel meal? its all about the grindle!

Posted by James Cook on 19/01/2009 22:03:58

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im an looking forward to watching this programme tonite as i am an employee for little chef ashchurch in gloucestershire. i emjoy working there and the team of staff are great! we however have no complaints about our food or our service . . so i hope you have taken a sample of a few little chefs around the country!

Posted by emily on 19/01/2009 12:01:21

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I am really looking forward to these programms. My sister loved little chef and I really want it to come back!!! Thak you for making this. It nearly as good eastenders and waterloo road!

Posted by Danielle on 19/01/2009 10:14:36

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I think the song you want is "Clubbed To Death" by Rob D.

Posted by Guy on 16/01/2009 02:33:05

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i too would like to no the name of the music in the ful lenght advert..please...!

Posted by tone on 15/01/2009 19:17:15

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I really need to know the name of the music on the full-length advert too!

Posted by Steven on 15/01/2009 16:48:26

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need to know for my media product what the song for the "big chef takes on little chef" advert was. much appreciated.

Posted by steve on 14/01/2009 21:09:47

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Please, please, please leave the Olympic breakfast alone. It is the only thing that can make me smile on a cold winter's morning. The only thing that needs to be changed about Little Chef are the prices.

Posted by Hollie on 12/01/2009 11:48:25

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Big Chef Takes On Little Chef Big Chef Takes on Little Chef

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