MasterChef winner Craig Johnston joins D&D's Angler as head chef

Acorn Award winner Craig Johnston has taken over as head chef at the Michelin-starred Angler restaurant in London.

He has joined the team at D&D London’s seafood restaurant, which sits at the top the South Place Hotel, ahead of a "new chapter" for the site.

Johnston began his culinary career aged 16 before moving to London to work at Pollen Street Social and Royal Oak in Paley Street.

He competed in MasterChef: the Professionals in 2017 and became the youngest-ever winner aged just 21.

After impressing judge Marcus Wareing on the show, Johnston joined his Michelin-starred restaurant Marcus at the Berkeley hotel as chef de partie in 2018. He worked his way up to head chef and held the role for two years until the restaurant closed at the end of 2023.

In his new role, Johnston will work alongside consultant chef Gary Foulkes, who recently left his executive chef role at Angler to join Cornus in Belgravia.

Johnston said: “I’m excited to bring fresh ideas to Angler and continue its legacy. Working with Gary and the team, I look forward to elevating our seafood offerings.”

David Loewi, chief executive of D&D London, said: “Craig’s impressive career and talent make him a fantastic addition to Angler. We’re excited for the innovation and excellence he’ll bring to the restaurant.”

Johnston won an Acorn, The Caterer’s annual awards celebrating the top 30 people to watch in hospitality aged under 30, in 2022.