Simon Rogan, chef proprietor of L Enclume in Cartmel and Roganic in London is set to oversee cooking operations at the brasserie and French restaurants at Manchester Midland Hotel from February 2013.
As reported in industry journal Big Hospitality, Simon will overhaul the kitchens at the Victorian landmark revitalising what has become something of a lacklustre operation. The French at the Midland is still listed in the Michelin and Good Food Guides but lost its Michelin star in the early 1980s.
Ready for luxury dining
Speaking to Big Hospitality, Rogan said âOverall the Manchester dining scene has been quite casual and bar driven but this is a great opportunity to set the trend for luxury dining and the city is definitely ready for it."
"There is huge affection for The Midland Hotel in Manchester and I want to help bring its restaurants back to their former glory. Its a wonderful challenge.â
His restaurant L Enclume has climbed and climbed in national ratings since opening in 2003, changing direction from adventurous modern British to a more foraged, regional cooking style which nods to world innovators like Noma in Copenhagen.
The Cumbrian restaurant secured a Michelin star in 2008 and a second in the guide this year. It has received countless glowing reviews not least a perfect score in The Telegraph last month.
The Midland Hotel, Peter Street, M60 2DS. Tel: 0161 236 3333, www.qhotels.co.uk