At The Mulberry Bush, we’ve always believed that good food is at the heart of a happy childhood. Mealtimes at our nurseries aren’t just about filling little tummies, they’re a chance to explore new flavours, celebrate different cultures and build a positive relationship with food that lasts a lifetime.

Behind every delicious, freshly prepared meal is a talented chef and today we’re delighted to introduce you to one of ours, Chef Javier, who leads the kitchen at our Bitterne Park nursery in Southampton.

From Professional Kitchens to the Nursery Table

Javier brings a wealth of culinary experience to The Mulberry Bush family:

“I have been a chef for the past 14 years, spending the last 7 years as a head chef. Over the last 3 years, I have worked in childcare settings and I joined The Mulberry Bush team about a year ago, where I have thoroughly enjoyed my experience. Originally from Spain, I love to infuse Mediterranean flavours into my cooking, celebrating diverse cultures and events for the families we serve. I strive to be inclusive in my culinary creations, ensuring that everyone can enjoy the meals I prepare, while catering to a variety of dietary preferences.”

Chef Javier, The Mulberry Bush Bitterne Park

With 14 years as a professional chef and a genuine passion for cooking for children, Javier embodies everything our food ethos stands for. His Spanish heritage shines through in the Mediterranean influences he weaves into our menus – think vibrant vegetables, wholesome grains, olive oil and fresh, seasonal ingredients, all widely recognised as one of the healthiest ways of eating in the world.

Why Fresh, Homemade Nursery Food Matters

Every meal at The Mulberry Bush is made from scratch in our own kitchens, using the finest ingredients. There are no reheated ready meals here – just honest, homemade cooking, every single day.

This commitment to quality isn’t new, we are dedicated to providing exceptional food and healthy eating education across all our settings.

Cooking from scratch means we know exactly what goes into every dish. It allows our chefs to:

• Control salt and sugar levels – keeping them appropriate for growing bodies.
• Pack meals with hidden goodness – from blended vegetables in sauces to wholegrain swaps.
• Expose children to the wonderful world of flavours and textures
• Adapt every dish safely for allergies, intolerances and dietary or cultural requirements.
• Respond to the children themselves, tweaking recipes based on what they love (and what comes back on the plate!)

What Should a Healthy Diet for Young Children Look Like?

Parents often ask us what children under five should be eating, so here’s a helpful overview of the principles that guide our menus.

A balance of the main food groups

Young children grow at a remarkable rate and their meals need to fuel that growth. A balanced day of eating for a child typically includes:

• Starchy carbohydrates – potatoes, rice, pasta, bread and cereals provide the energy little bodies need for busy days of play and learning.
• Fruit and vegetables – aiming for a variety of colours across the day, offered at every meal and snack time.
• Protein – meat, fish, eggs, beans and pulses support muscle growth and development. Oily fish is a wonderful source of omega-3.
• Dairy or dairy alternatives – milk, cheese and yoghurt provide calcium for strong bones and teeth.
• Healthy fats – young children need proportionally more fat in their diets than adults. Sources like olive oil, avocado and oily fish are ideal (and a staple of Javier’s Mediterranean inspired cooking!)

Little and often

Small stomachs mean children benefit from regular meals and nutritious snacks throughout the day. At The Mulberry Bush, our daily rhythm includes breakfast, a morning snack, a freshly cooked lunch, an afternoon snack and tea, so children are never running on empty.

Variety, variety, variety

The early years are the perfect window to shape adventurous eaters. Research shows that children may need to be offered a new food many times before they accept it, so we gently and positively encourage children to try new tastes and textures, without any pressure. Sitting together at mealtimes, seeing friends enjoy their food and celebrating dishes from different cultures all help children develop curiosity and confidence around food.

Weaning support for our youngest children

For babies just beginning their food journey, we offer specially designed weaning menus, prepared with the same from scratch care. Our team works closely with parents to make sure each baby’s weaning stage and individual needs are supported every step of the way.

Food That Celebrates Every Child

One of the things Javier loves most about cooking at Bitterne Park is celebrating the diverse cultures and special occasions of the families we serve. Throughout the year, our menus reflect festivals and events from around the world, giving children a delicious introduction to global cultures and traditions.

Inclusivity is equally important on a practical level. Whether your child has an allergy, an intolerance or follows a particular diet for cultural, religious or personal reasons, our kitchen team will ensure they enjoy safe, delicious meals right alongside their friends. Just let us know your child’s requirements and we’ll take care of the rest.

Come and Taste the Difference

We genuinely believe our food is one of the things that sets The Mulberry Bush apart and parents agree. As one Mulberry Bush parent shared, the attention to detail and delicious menu helped their daughter thrive, even with her allergies.

The best way to experience our nurseries and perhaps catch the aroma of Javier’s cooking drifting from the kitchen, is to visit in person.

Book a personalised tour of our Bitterne Park nursery or any of our Hampshire settings, and see for yourself why so many local families trust The Mulberry Bush.

📞 Bitterne Park: 02382 351 888 

🍽️ View our sample menu and food ethos