In the heart of Bruton, Somerset, The Old Pharmacy began as a small grocery shop during lockdown, growing into a neighbourhood bistro and wine bar built around a love of good food, local produce and bringing people together.

Founded by chef Merlin Labron-Johnson, the restaurant takes inspiration from the farmhouse kitchens of rural France and Italy, with a philosophy rooted in simplicity, seasonality and making the most of what the surrounding land has to offer. Much of the produce comes directly from the team's own farms, creating a close connection between the fields and the food served at the table.

We spent time in the kitchen exploring the ideas behind The Old Pharmacy, the importance of cooking with the seasons, and the quiet satisfaction that comes from turning simple ingredients into something meaningful.

Beyond the food, it's a story about community, a connection to the land and creating somewhere people genuinely want to gather. A reminder that great cooking doesn't always need to be complicated.

This is why Marc cooks.