MICHELIN starred brothers Chris and Jeff Galvin have vowed to bring top quality cuisine to Essex after spending £3million renovating a country pub.

The pair have brought their growing restaurant empire back to their roots, unveiling the Galvin Green Man, in Howe Street, Great Waltham, for the first time on Wednesday night.

Chris revealed he has previously faced criticism over the perceived lack of top notch food on offer in the county.

He said: “We are two Essex boys who wanted to do something special where we come from. We always felt Essex would benefit from some good, quality food, so we were happy to take on this project when the opportunity came up.

“When I was working at the Savoy, I was always teased about coming from the gastronomic desert of Essex…but they’re not saying that anymore.”

Despite owning a string of high-end restaurants in the capital, the brothers are sticking to their humble roots, offering traditional British pub food with a unique twist.

Chris added: “This is a quintessential British pub, serving at the heart of the community, great beers, and great food. We want the Galvin Green Man to be part of the rich tapestry of the Essex countryside.

“It came together with the help of the community, and I want to thank everyone involved.”

Enjoying samples from the menu at the official launch was ‘Dr Love’ Fred Sirieix, Maitre D at Channel 4’s First Dates restaurant.

The Frenchman is general manager at Galvin Windows, the brothers’ restaurant in London’s Mayfair.

He said: “I am very happy for them. I’m here to show my support for this venture.”

He also revealed his strict fitness regime - which he often illustrates on Twitter - would not stop him taking full advantage of the culinary delights on offer.

He added: “I love food. I eat butter. I drink Champagne. Fitness is part of my life. I wake up, I go to the gym, but I still like to enjoy myself.”

Also enjoying themselves at the historical pub, which dates back to 1314, were members of the Essex county cricket team, who have sponsored one of the four themed event rooms, and mayor of Chelmsford Patricia Hughes.

The Galvin Green Man is open to the public from Monday.