Michael Blades appointed head chef at Upstairs by Tom Shepherd

Michael Blades has been named head chef at the Michelin-starred Upstairs by Tom Shepherd in Lichfield, Staffordshire, amid plans for the opening of a “second, more informal restaurant”.

Blades has known Shepherd for over 11 years and supported the restaurant’s launch in October 2021 as sous chef. Four months later, it had already received a Michelin star.

Upstairs by Tom Shepherd was also named the Newcomer of the Year at the 2024 Cateys.

Blades had previously worked as a commis chef at the two Michelin-starred Restaurant Sat Bains in Nottingham and later as junior sous chef at Adams in Birmingham.

Blades will now be responsible for a kitchen brigade of 10 and serve dishes such as Orkney scallop, peanut satay, radish and coriander; Herefordshire beef, garlic, tarragon, onion and smoke; and the Great British Menu signature, ‘No Ordinary Schoolboy’ with banana, rum and caramel.

Shepherd revealed Blades’ promotion coincides with his plans to open a “second, more informal restaurant and bar”.

As well as Upstairs, Shepherd, a former Acorn Award winner, works with Experiences by Wembley Stadium, Royal Ascot and Wimbledon.

Blades said: “I am so excited to take the helm at Upstairs, its reputation is world class, and I look forward to continuing the success with Tom and the team to deliver exceptional dishes that surprise and delight guests.”

Shepherd added: “Mike is an incredible chef and it’s an absolute pleasure to promote him to head chef at Upstairs. I’ve watched him hone his skills over time and I’m so proud and excited to see what the future holds. I’ve known Mike for many years and the time is right for a new challenge, he is so creative and I trust him implicitly. He leads from the front and I’m excited for the future.”