Niall Keating leaves Lunar restaurant

Niall Keating has left his role as chef director at Lunar, the Staffordshire restaurant he began overseeing in 2021.

Keating partnered with events firm the Great British Experience Company to open the 120-cover restaurant at the World of Wedgwood visitor attraction nearly three years ago.

The restaurant said in a statement that Keating and Lunar’s co-founder Craig Wilkinson had “mutually decided to part ways”.

The decision comes ahead of the launch of Keating’s high-end restaurant Tender at Gary Neville’s Stock Exchange Hotel in Manchester next month.

An Instagram post from Lunar read: “With a heavy heart we announce that this Sunday 19 May marks the last chance to enjoy chef Niall Keating’s delicious menu at our award-winning restaurant.

“Whilst the restaurant will remain open, Niall will sadly be leaving as chef director from Lunar after both founders of Lunar, Niall and Craig Wilkinson, mutually decided to part ways.

“Although we will be very sad to see Niall go, Lunar isn’t going anywhere! We are committed to building on what Niall has achieved at Lunar, cherishing and respecting it.”

The restaurant said a new head chef and menu would be announced next week.

Under Keating’s guidance, Lunar earned a recommendation in the Michelin Guide Great Britain and Ireland 2024. The restaurant won a Michelin green star for sustainability in 2021, but no longer holds the award.

Keating spent five years as executive chef at Whatley Manor in Malmesbury, during which time its Dining Room restaurant won two Michelin stars. He left the hotel in 2021 ahead of the opening of Lunar.

Keating wrote on Instagram: “On the final day of Lunar by Niall Keating I wanted to extend a heart felt thank you to every guest, team member and supplier that has helped contribute and support our journey.

“I look forward to welcoming everyone to [Tender] in the near future.”