Andy Short named head chef at IHG’s first carbon neutral hotel

Andy Short has been appointed head chat at Isca, the restaurant at IHG’s first carbon neutral hotel, which is due to open in January 2025.

He joins Voco Zeal Exeter Science Park from Salcombe Harbour hotel, where he was head chef, having worked at various hotels and restaurants across northern Europe.

Short also holds a degree in environmental science, as well as a Master’s in environmental consultancy.

The restaurant is named after ‘water’ or ‘river’ in the Celtic language, which was also the Roman name for Exeter, and will serve predominantly fish- or plant-based dishes featuring responsibly-sourced produce.

Short said: “Isca marries my passions for cooking and the environment, in a project which has true sustainability at its core. 

“One of the attractions of Isca will be its sensible and thoughtful approach, from championing locally-sourced ingredients from ethical suppliers to the energy we use. Every ingredient and every practice will be rigorously assessed as we challenge ourselves to make the best decisions possible.”

Barnaby Kean, general manager at Voco Zeal Exeter Science Park, added: “We are thrilled to have a chef of Andy’s knowledge and calibre joining us on this project. We hope that Isca will set the tone for environmentally-responsible dining and I know that each dish served will not only taste good but also uphold our commitment to sustainability and fairness.”

The 142-bedroom property, which is currently under construction, achieved the BREEAM Outstanding rating during the design stage and will be operated by Valor Hospitality.

Managing director for IHG Europe, Karin Sheppard, previously told The Caterer that IHG’s first carbon neutral hotel in partnership with Zeal Hotels is part of the group’s wider strategy of "how we can look after the planet and the communities of tomorrow".