Dunluce Lodge recruits Stephen Holland as executive chef

Dunluce Lodge in Portrush, Northern Ireland has appointed Stephen Holland as executive chef.

The new luxury hotel is opening in February 2025 within the Royal Portrush Golf Club on the Causeway Coast.

Holland will lead the team at the Restaurant and Bar at Dunluce Lodge, offering à la carte dining, tasting menus and sharing platters in the Restaurant, the Wine Vault, the Library or private dining space.

He previously served as executive head chef at other high-end hotels, cooking for Queen Elizabeth II and other illustrious diners. Holland began his career cooking with celebrity chef Rick Stein and brings with him much experience after honing his craft in America, Canada, China and New Zealand.

Having officially started in his new role at the beginning of November, Holland described being tasked with showcasing the best Northern Irish produce to a global audience at Dunluce Lodge as a “unique and exciting opportunity”.

He said: “The Causeway Coast is a beautiful part of the world and being able to showcase the best of Northern Ireland’s larder at the only five-star hotel in the area is one I couldn’t let pass me by.

“I have cooked for the late Queen Elizabeth II and in amazing venues in New York and New Zealand, but I am very proud of my Irish roots and know our fantastic local produce is on par with the world’s best. I cannot wait to have our first guests dining in our restaurant.”

Stephen Meldrum, general manager, Dunluce Lodge added: “Stephen’s CV is impeccable, and he is one of the best young Irish chefs around. His intimate knowledge of local produce makes him a great addition to the team.

“Dunluce Lodge will benefit from his passion and enthusiasm which will help ensure we, as a team, can deliver best-in-class service and professionalism.”

Once open, the hotel will offer a spa, complimentary private transfers to the nearby helipad and clubhouses at Royal Portrush and Portstewart Golf Clubs, plus an onsite putting green designed by renowned golf architect, Martin Ebert.

Dunluce Lodge will be operated by Valor Hospitality Partners, a full-service hotel management company, in partnership with US-based Links Collection, which also owns Seaton House in St Andrews.