Chefs - where are they now?
In his ten years at L'ortolan, Alan Murchison has been an inspiration and mentor for many aspiring chefs, some of whom have since gone on to achieve great things.
Will Holland, La Becasse, Shropshire - 1* Michelin
Will worked at L'ortolan from 2004 - 2007 and was Alan's Head Chef for 3 years. Previous experience includes Gravetye Manor 1* Michelin and Homewood Park 1* Michelin. Will has appeared in a number of high profile TV series including Hairy Bikers, Great British Menu, the Restaurant Inspector and is a regular chef on Saturday kitchen. La Becasse has, under Will's guidance, achieved critical acclaim acrosos the board since its opening in 2007
Marcin Beaufort, Sel Gris Belgium - 1* Michelin
Marcin and Alan met at Le Manoir aux Quat Saisons, he was part of the opening team in 2001 and worked with Alan until 2003.
Matt Weedon, Lords of the Manor - 1* Michelin
Matt has done 2 stints in the kitchen with Alan, as a Sous Chef and also as Head Chef. He has previously held a Michelin star at Glenapp Castle and has worked at the Michelin starred Hambleton Hall and the 3* Michelin Waterside Inn in Bray
Phil Fanning, Paris House - 1* Michelin
Phil worked at L’ortolan from 2007 - 2010, rising from Chef de Partie to Sous Chef during that time. He has achieved great things at Paris House including a Michelin star in under 10 months and a prestigious Acorn Award in 2011 for young achievers in the hospitality industry.
Russell Ploughman, Gilpin Lodge - 3 AA Rossettes
Russ worked at L'ortolan from 2005 - 2008 with his lovely wife Ellodie also working in the restaurant. He arrived at L’ortolan from the kitchens of the 3* Michelin Waterside Inn and is now in his first Head Chefs position at Gilpin Lodge. A Michelin star is only a matter of time...
Dan Smith, The Peacock at Rowsley - 3 AA Rossettes
Dan first worked with Alan many moons ago in 1996 as an apprentice from college whilst L’ortolan was still run by John Burton Race, Dan has worked with Alan on numerous occasions over the years and has also worked with John Burton Race at the Landmark 2* Michelin and Tom Aikens 1* Michelin. Dan is now is his first Head Chef position at the Peacock in Rowsley pushing hard to achieve his first Michelin star
