Lewis Vimpany promoted to head chef at Edinburgh's Aizle

Lewis Vimpany has been promoted to head chef of Stuart Ralston’s Aizle restaurant in Edinburgh's Kimpgton Charlotte Square hotel.

It comes after Vimpany joined the restaurant as senior sous chef in October 2020.

The 31-year-old chef has previously worked at Number One at the Balmoral in Edinburgh, the two Michelin starred Gleneagles in Auchterarder, and the Cellar in Fife.

In 2016, during his time as sous chef at the Cellar, the restaurant was awarded a Michelin star.

Chef owner Stuart Ralston, who appeared on Great British Menu 2021 and 2022, promoted Lewis for his creative menu development, his management of kitchen operations and his strong work ethic.

Vimpany said: “I am absolutely thrilled to have been promoted to head chef of Aizle. Stuart has supported my development from the get-go and it is thanks to him, plus the amazing Aizle team, I have got to where I am. I am looking forward to continuing to push the boundaries at Aizle and developing further within the company.”

Ralston added: “Lewis has a natural talent and drive which is fantastic. I knew when I hired him, I would like for him to take over as head chef of Aizle. He brings creative ideas to the table and he understands where I want to take the restaurant. I know he is going to excel in this role and I am looking forward to supporting his vision for the Aizle menus”.

Ralston, who has worked at Gordon Ramsay at the London in New York, opened Aizle in 2014. The restaurant provides a list of ingredients, which are then used in the six-course tasting menu.