About Us

Eight is a family-run bar and restaurant located in the heart of the market town of Baldock, Hertfordshire which opened in December 2022. We focus on a simplified, seasonal offering using thoughtfully sourced, local ingredients.

The restaurant is led by chef patron Kish Raheja, a Baldock resident and chef with over 17 years of experience in some of London’s most respected kitchens.

Eight is the realisation of Kish’s lifelong dream — opening a restaurant in his hometown — made possible with the love and support of the three women in his life: his wife Kerry, and daughters Olivia and Freya.

Our Story

Like all good stories, this one began unexpectedly.

When the pandemic left Kish out of work, he didn’t stay still for long. True to his nature, he built a homemade tandoor in his back garden — more out of curiosity than intention. But after a few trial cooks, the irresistible aromas drifting over the fence soon caught the attention of the neighbours. Before long, they were placing weekend takeaway orders, and just like that, Chef at Home was born.

At first, it was simply a way to stay busy — and, as chefs like to say, to "keep the knives sharp." But it quickly became much more. Chef at Home brought restaurant-quality meals to the local community at a time when dining out wasn’t an option. Even more importantly, it became a way to support local farmers, producers, and fishermen — many of whom were receiving little to no support during that time.

From Garden to Restaurant

As lockdown restrictions began to ease in April 2021, Kish’s creativity took a new turn. Determined to keep Chef at Home growing, he reinvested his earnings into a converted horsebox, taking the concept on the road. Throughout the summer, he could be found at street food markets, festivals, fayres, and private events — working tirelessly, but loving every minute of it.

Then came a defining moment. In May 2022, during the Baldock Festival, Kish hosted a pop-up event at The Arbury — and sold out on a Wednesday night. That evening planted the first seed of what would eventually become Eight. The dream felt within reach.

In November 2022, Kish finally received the keys to his very own restaurant — a lifelong chef’s dream, made possible by the incredible support of the local community. That support is something the family will never take for granted, and it remains at the heart of everything they do.

Rooted in Local

The story of Eight. is not just about food — it’s about community and connection. From day one, the ethos has been to champion local, independent producers and celebrate the quality and richness of what surrounds Baldock.

You’ll find this commitment throughout the menu:

  • Locally reared South Devon beef, pork from Priors Hall in Great Dunmow

  • Locally distilled gin & rum from Copper in the Clouds & Hitchin Honey

  • Small-batch, locally roasted coffee from Capervan Coffee

  • Churned gelato from nearby Fabio’s Gelato

Even the accountant, POS system, alarm company and insurance broker are local businesses. Supporting the local economy isn’t a slogan here — it’s a core value.

Our People, Our Future

Eight wouldn’t be what it is today without the hard work, passion, and dedication of our incredible team. Every member of the crew is a local resident — and an all-round superstar — who brings energy, creativity and care to everything they do.

Looking ahead, our vision is simple: to continue growing organically, staying true to our roots while expanding our offering. That includes developing our private catering and event services, drawing from the experience and success of Chef at Home.

But perhaps most importantly, we’re committed to nurturing the next generation of hospitality stars — a few of whom we’re proud to already have on our team. Training, mentoring, and creating opportunities for young local talent is central to our mission.

Because at Eight., it’s not just about food. It’s about people, community, and building something that lasts.