Luke Phillips appointed head chef of Hans’ Bar & Grill

Masterchef: the Professionals semi-finalist Luke Phillips has been appointed head chef of Hans’ Bar & Grill at 11 Cadogan Gardens hotel in London.

He joined the restaurant from 11 Cadogan Gardens' sister property, Chewton Glen in New Milton, Hampshire, where he completed the Specialist Chef Apprenticeship, supported by the Royal Academy of Culinary Arts, alongside studying at Bournemouth & Poole College.

Over the course of eight and half years over two tenures at the luxury hotel, Phillips worked his way up to senior sous chef. He reached the semi-finals of the BBC cooking competition Masterchef: the Professionals in 2018.

In his new role, Phillips has succeeded Adam England, who launched the restaurant in Spring 2018 on the site of what was previously Alexis Gauthier's Tartufo.

Phillips said: “I plan to create strong relationships with my guests, introducing them to my style of cuisine, which is a fusion of classic and modern techniques that has been developed working alongside some great chefs.

“I thoroughly intend to immerse myself into the kitchen life by striving for originality and creativity.”

Andrew Stembridge, executive director of Iconic Luxury Hotels – which includes Cliveden House and the Lygon Arms alongside Chewton Glen and 11 Cadogan Gardens – added: “This is a very exciting opportunity for Luke to take control of his own kitchen and use the managerial and culinary skills that he has honed during his time at Chewton Glen under executive head chef Luke Matthews.

“His appearance on the popular television programme MasterChef: The Professionals 2018 – wowing judges Marcus Wareing, Monica Galetti and Gregg Wallace with his excellent cooking skills and creative flare – has more than demonstrated that Luke is a real culinary star in the making.”