Ventnor Boutique hotel, The Hambrough is getting geared up to welcome a new chef next week, when Michelin star holder, Robert Thompson, joins the gang.
He leaves behind his position as Head Chef at Cliveden and we hear is very excited about the untapped potential of the Island.
“What better opportunity can there be? I’m filled with excitement at the thought of taking on The Hambrough and I have a great feeling of something big around the corner. In one day you can find the most amazing produce on the Island, there is so much for me to discover and so much for me to take inspiration from.
“Not many get the opportunity to achieve their life time ambitions, they may never be in the right place at the right time. I have the opportunity right now. With vision and the commitment of my team along with my own burning ambition to reach the top, I can not wait to light up the stoves and start my next adventure.”
He’s got a lot of experience in wowing the judges from an early age. After starting catering school at the tender age of 16, he went on to become a regional finalist in the Gordon Ramsay Scholarship.
Young Chef of the Year
In 2002 he was awarded Young Chef of the Year and was recognized as a national finalist by The Roux Scholarship.
Four years later he won an Acorn Award, 4/5 Rosettes in the AA Guide and an unprecedented 9/10 in the Good Food Guide.
Blimey!
First Michelin star
His first Michelin star came in 2006 at an incredible age of just 23 years old, the youngest ever to achieve this standard.
The Michelin star chef won’t have to get used to working with strangers when he comes down to Ventnor next week, as he’s bringing his own team with him.
For the role of General Manager, he’s chosen Johan Brouckaert, who is experienced in working at 2 and 3 Michelin-starred restaurants such as The Capital and Le Gavroche.
Robbie will also be overseeing the sister restaurant in Bonchurch, The Pond Cafe, and is very excited about the array of produce available on the Island.
We look forward to trying out his new menu, perhaps we’ll be invited along to review the specials!
