
about us
Simon & Carla pictured with their
friend Marco Pierre White
At the heart of it all are Simon and Carla Grayson, the husband-and-wife team who bring their personality and passion to every corner of the restaurant.
Simon runs the floor with warmth and wit, and brings a deep-rooted love of wine to the table. Having created wine lists for establishments run by his friend, the acclaimed Marco Pierre White, he ensures each bottle on the shelf is carefully selected and well-matched to the food.
His path here has been anything but typical—from farming in Central Africa to trading in Kenya, and eventually settling in Leicestershire where he’s managed a number of much-loved pub restaurants. It’s a background that brings a unique richness to The Monk’s spirit.
In the kitchen, Carla draws on over 20 years of experience and her Italian heritage to create food that’s full of soul. Her approach is rooted in home-style cooking with a refined touch, and each dish tells a story of tradition, travel, and a genuine love for feeding people.
Together, they’ve created something special: a place that feels both familiar and unexpected, full of flavour, character, and the kind of hospitality that leaves a lasting impression.
They’re supported by a friendly, close-knit team who bring warmth, energy, and a shared sense of humour to the space. There’s an unmistakable feeling of family here—one that flows naturally from Simon and Carla’s down-to-earth, inclusive approach to hospitality. It’s the kind of place where everyone feels part of something, and guests pick up on it the moment they are greeted at the door.