Simpson's saves gentleman's relish from the brink, fans rejoice

British culinary fans were devastated to learn that Gentleman's Relish, a beloved condiment, was being discontinued by its manufacturer. But restaurateur Jeremy King, known for his iconic establishments like The Ivy and Simpson's, has taken matters into his own hands.

King's kitchen crafts a rescued relish

After discovering the difficulty in obtaining genuine Gentleman's Relish, King instructed his Simpson's chef to create a version almost identical to the original.

This homemade relish, made with anchovy fillets, rusk, butter, and a secret blend of herbs and spices, has already become a huge hit at the 198-year-old London eatery.

Served on toast for £6.50, the relish is a staple at Simpson's, which offers traditional British fare like roast beef and spotted dick. Its connection to the dish extends back to 1828, when it was first created by John Osborn, an English grocer living in Paris.

Osborn's original recipe, known as patum peperium, was launched the same year Simpson's opened its doors. According to King, his chef adapted a classic Victorian recipe for the relish, which he prefers over mass-produced versions.

Not everyone will have to bid farewell to Gentleman's Relish, however. Fortnum & Mason will continue to produce and sell their own version, packaged in a Tiffany blue pot and priced at £14.95. This indulgent condiment boasts a 'whole armada of anchovy' alongside dill, garlic, and fragrant Sarawak pepper.

Celebrity chef Nigella Lawson, who once listed the relish as one of her '10 foods I couldn't live without', expressed her delight at Simpson's rescue effort. While she understands the commercial challenges the original manufacturer faced, Lawson plans to make her own version at home, as long as she has access to anchovies and butter.

AB World Foods, the company behind Gentleman's Relish, attributed the discontinuation to the condiment's niche following and difficulty securing retailer distribution. Despite best efforts to find a buyer, the brand could not sustain production.