Sean Wrest steps down as head chef at Michelin-starred Roots York

Sean Wrest has left his role as head chef at Michelin-starred Roots in York with plans to eventually open his own restaurant.

The chef joined Roots, which is owned by Tommy Banks, two-and-a-half years ago and helped the team win a Michelin star in the Michelin Guide Great Britain and Ireland 2021.

Writing on Instagram Wrest, one of the 2021 Acorn Award winners, said now was “the perfect time” to move on and take some time for himself.

“Leading the team to become the first ever Michelin-starred restaurant in York history will forever be a hugely proud and emotional moment and I cannot thank every single member of the team past and present for making that dream come true,” he said.

“I can’t thank Tommy and the family enough for all their support. I’m really excited for the restaurant to go from strength to strength.”

Wrest plans to pick up some casual kitchen work and spend time with his family and friends before looking to open his own restaurant with his partner Sam.

“The prospect of doing our own thing is incredibly exciting and although nothing is in motion at present, we are really excited to begin that journey over the next year or so,” he said.

Image credit: Andrew Hayes-Watkins