Ryan Venning appointed head chef at Cornwall restaurant Kota Kai

Ryan Venning has been named head chef at Kota Kai in Porthleven, Cornwall.

The South African chef has over 20 years’ experience in the industry, having worked at the likes of Porthminster Beach Café and the Herring at Bedruthan Steps hotel in Cornwall, where he has been based since 2001.

He replaces Marcus Houghton, who was responsible for leading Kota Kai following its refurbishment in January last year.

Kota Kai was launched by New Zealand-born Jude Kereama in 2011 as a sister restaurant to the Michelin Guide-listed Kota, which has been operating since 2006 in Porthleven.

Kota Kai offers family-friendly dining with an Asian twist, with dishes such as pork belly bao bun, pickled cucumber, apple hoisin, crispy onion and kimchi; and panko hake fillet, katsu sauce, pickled vegetables and tenderstem broccoli.

Kereama said: “Ryan is an incredible chef and a true talent in the kitchen. His philosophy of using local, sustainable ingredients aligns perfectly with what we value at Kota Kai. We are delighted to welcome him to the team and I can’t wait to cook alongside him!”

Venning added: “Jude and his team at Kota Kai have always been a standout on Cornwall’s food scene, and I’m honoured to step into this role. I’m looking forward to working closely with Jude to celebrate the incredible produce we have here on our doorstep and ensure Kota Kai continues its success.”