A leading chef has announced that he is leaving the hotel restaurant where he earned a Michelin star nine years ago and has kept it ever since.
Executive chef George Blogg is to leave Gravetye Manor, in Vowels Lane, West Hoathly, near East Grinstead, after more than 10 years, according to the Caterer, a trade publication.
Blogg started working at Gravetye in 2014 and a year later won a Michelin star. He has since won four AA rosettes and various other awards.
He took some pride in becoming the first recipient of the Matt Campbell Extra Mile Award recognising his work helping young chefs to develop their careers.
The Caterer quoted Blogg as saying: “Gravetye is a magical place that will forever be a part of who I am.
“The last 10 years have been an incredible journey and an utter privilege to work alongside some truly amazing people whose passion and hard work have grown Gravetye to be a standout property.
“I am excited for the future but will miss Gravetye immensely. I am proud of the countless guest experiences we have created and I know that Gravetye will continue to thrive.”
The hotel and restaurant at the Elizabethan manor house are owned by Jeremy Hosking, a leading shareholder in Crystal Palace Football Club, and his wife Elizabeth. They told the Caterer: “It’s bittersweet to see (George) go.
“We are hugely grateful for everything he has achieved and the dedication he has given to both his colleagues and to our guests at Gravetye.
“George will be a hard act to follow, and we wish him all the best.”
General manager Paul Skinner is understood to have started the quest to find Blogg’s successor.
Gravetye has a renowned walled kitchen garden, created by William Robinson, the father of the herbaceous border, just over 100 years ago.
It and overlooks 35 acres of gardens, with seasonal produce featured on the menu. Lunch starts at £78 and dinner at £128.
