Martin Carabott appointed executive chef at Gravetye Manor

Martin Carabott has announced he is joining the team at Gravetye Manor as an executive chef.

He also won the prestigious Roux Scholarship in 2018 at the age of 29, read more: 'Martin Carabott wins 2018 Roux Scholarship.'

The news comes after Theo Clench stepped in on an interim basis after George Blogg left the manor.

Gravetye Manor is a historic Elizabethan manor house located near East Grinstead, West Sussex. 

The restaurant, known as The Dining Room, is a Michelin-starred establishment that offers an exceptional fine-dining experience.

Before joining Gravetye Manor, Carabott was the head of development at Luca in London and served as head chef at Hide.

In a post on social media, it read: “We are thrilled to announce that Roux Scholar, Martin Carabott, is joining Gravetye Manor as our new Executive Chef. Martin officially takes the helm of our kitchen today.

"Originally from Malta, Martin’s career has seen him work in some of the most prestigious kitchens in the world. He won the Roux Scholarship in 2018 at the age of 29, while serving as Senior Sous Chef at Hide in London. After winning the scholarship, he completed a stage at the world-renowned three Michelin-starred Eleven Madison Park in New York. Most recently, Martin held the position of Head of Development at Luca in London.

"At Gravetye Manor, Martin will lead our talented kitchen brigade, continuing our long-standing tradition of delivering exceptional Michelin-starred dining. Under his leadership, the team will craft dishes that celebrate the very best of seasonal and homegrown produce. He will work closely with Head Gardener Tom Coward to make full use of our 35-acre estate, which includes the unique elliptical walled kitchen garden, fruit orchards, glasshouses, and Peach House."

Paul Skinner, Gravetye Manor’s General Manager, said: “For many years, Gravetye Manor has enjoyed a proud reputation for providing exceptional Michelin-star quality dining. I am delighted that Martin Carabott will join the team as Executive Chef, ensuring that we continue to produce outstanding fine dining using the freshest seasonal ingredients from our kitchen garden. Martin brings a wealth of experience, and I am very excited about the future direction of our dining room under his leadership.”

“We look forward to welcoming our guests to experience Martin’s exceptional cuisine and to continue our legacy of culinary excellence.”

Martin said: “I am very excited to be joining the talented and passionate team at Gravetye Manor and to bring my culinary vision to this well-established and celebrated hotel and restaurant. With a history of world-class food and hospitality, it is an honour to be given this opportunity, and I cannot wait to be a part of its future.”