Legendary chef heralds return of closed Oxfordshire pub

The Muddy Duck on Main Street in Hethe near Bicester announced it would temporarily close in April 2023 due to issues with staffing and recruitment.

A statement from the pub said: “Due to ongoing, untenable issues with staffing and recruitment in the hospitality industry currently, we have made the sad and difficult decision to temporarily close The Muddy Duck.

“The premises will close as of this Friday, April 21. If you have an upcoming reservation with us, this will regrettably be cancelled, and you will be contacted shortly to this effect.

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“Many thanks for your continued support. We’ll be back to communicate future plans very soon.”

No reopening date was given, but earlier in 2026, and three years after the closure, The Muddy Duck is finally ready to reopen with an official date later this month.

An announcement made across the pub’s social media pages confirmed the venue would welcome back customers on Friday, June 19.

The caption on Instagram said: “The wait is over. From 19th June, The Muddy Duck will be open Friday, Saturday and Sunday.

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The Muddy Duck pub in Oxfordshire. (Image: The Muddy Duck)

“Don’t miss out – book your table now through the link in our bio.”

Now, iconic chef Mr White has heralded the pub’s imminent return, revealing that it will feature a Japanese-style restaurant.

The 64-year-old is widely regarded as one of Britain’s most influential chefs and the youngest to earn three Michelin stars.

He trained under Raymond Blanc at Oxfordshire’s Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons, which has now temporarily closed for renovations until summer 2027.

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Marco Pierre White in the clip. (Image: The Muddy Duck)

Mr White has since built a restaurant empire and become a familiar face on television through shows such as Hell’s Kitchen and MasterChef.

He has now recorded in a video clip shared on The Muddy Duck’s social media in which he said: “Now, let me let you into a little secret which will soon no longer be a secret.

“The Muddy Duck near Bicester, Oxfordshire, is now turned into a Japanese restaurant.

“And when I say it’s good, it’s very good. It’s deliciously good. You’d be a fool not to go. Good luck!”

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The Muddy Duck pub in Oxfordshire. (Image: The Muddy Duck)

A longer statement on the pub’s website added: “The Muddy Duck is back and better than ever.

“In collaboration with our friends at The Smoking Lobster on the Isle of Wight, we’ve reimagined what a local pub can be.

“Expect incredible small plates and sharing dishes with a Japanese twist, an exceptional wine list, local beer on tap and an atmosphere that’s truly one of a kind.

“Whether you settle into our cosy pub, immerse yourself in the restaurant, or soak up the charm of our outdoor garden, every visit is crafted to create memories that last.”