HISTORY OF THE BUTLER’S PANTRY
Ralph and Helen purchased The Butlers Pantry business back in 2003 as a tearoom & bistro. So popular were the bistro evenings, that there was a 6 month waiting list for reservations.
The outside catering side of the business increased rapidly, and in 2018 the business relocated to a large commercial unit to focus on their hugely successful events side of the business.
About Ralph & Helen Skripek
CHEF & DIRECTOR
Ralph
Born in Ashbourne, Ralph trained at Buxton catering college, and has worked as a chef and catering manager at many hotels and leisure companies in Germany and Switzerland and from the highlands of Scotland to the south shores of Britain. He is also a demonstration chef, working at food and country fairs promoting game and fish cooking and local Derbyshire produce. In his spare time, Ralph enjoys country pursuits, shooting & fishing on local reservoirs and is an Ambassador for The British Association of Shooting and Conservation.
Secretary & Events Manager
Helen
Amongst many roles within the leisure industry, Helen worked for both Gala Leisure and David Lloyd Leisure as their Administration Manager, and together with her husband acts as a Host Family for International Scholars. Helens claim to fame was representing the hospitality sector on the Government Briefing during the pandemic, when she directed a question to the then Treasurer, Rishi Sunak. In her spare time, Helen is a keen Derby County supporter, and is a member of a local ladies walking and social group.
Outside catering services
What our customers say
SARAH LOATES
LOATES HR DERBY
“If I get an invite that says the Butlers Pantry is doing the catering then I can guarantee I will be attending. As a vegetarian I always appreciate the diversity of offering for my dietary requirements too. Can highly recommend Helen and Ralph and their team.”
Laura – 2022
Wedding Day
“Ralph was so much more than a caterer to us – he was always there to reassure, offer advice and take away any stresses by ensuring everything went smoothly (something we needed when planning a wedding during a pandemic!). What a gent, he’s super talented and passionate about food, you must book him for any parties or gatherings – he can do it all!”
Helen – 2023
Dinner Party
“We booked Butlers Pantry to come and cook a three course meal for our party of 16 whilst away for the weekend. The service was fantastic from the start. The food was amazing and no one was disappointed. We would definitely recommend them and would use them again in the future.”
