Phil Howard appoints Gary Foulkes as head chef at the Square

Philip Howard has appointed Gary Foulkes as head chef of his two-Michelin-starred restaurant the Square in Mayfair.

The move comes after former head chef of 16 years Rob Weston left last month to become head chef at La Trompette in Chiswick.

Foulkes's previously worked at the Square for six years as sous chef from 2005 to 2011. His experience also includes time spent alongside Michelin-starred chefs such as John Campbell, Richard Neat, William Drabble and Gary Rhodes.

Commenting on Foulkes's appointment Howard said: "It was with great sadness that Rob left, but as with any departure an opportunity was born. I have immense respect for Gary as a chef, a craftsman and a leader and I very much look forward to working with him in the kitchen. I look ahead with excitement."

Foulkes said he was delighted with his new role. “Having previously spent six years as the sous chef at the Square, I learnt a lot about cooking and really enjoyed Phil’s ethos towards food,” he said.

“This knowledge has been enhanced since my recent travels around the world, much of which revolved around a discovery of food and cooking techniques. I have always considered the Square one of London’s finest restaurants, so when Phil offered me the opportunity for us to work together again, and put into practice much of what I have learnt; it was an easy decision to make.”

Head chef Rob Weston leaves two-Michelin-starred the Square >>