Chef Tom Cenci steps away from role overseeing the food offering at Stoney Street and 26 Grains

Chef Tom Cenci is stepping down from his role as head of food at Stoney Street Borough Market and 26 Grains in Neal's Yard, Covent Garden

The chef, who made a name for himself working in some of Europe's most esteemed kitchens, from 1 Lombard Street, Noble Rot, Graze and Duck & Waffle in London to Laurent in Paris, co-founded Loyal Tavern in Bermondsey in 2018.

Due to the pandemic, the pair announced that the neighbourhood restaurant would not be reopening its doors in 2020, which is when Tom seized on the opportunity for a residency at Borough Market.

After a successful year, he was appointed head of food for both 26 Grains at Neal's Yard in London's Covent Garden, and at sister restaurant Stoney Street in Borough Market.

Announcing his departure from the 26 Grains sites on social media, the chef said that while he may be involved in future projects with them in the future, in so far as his capacity leading their food offerings, "I feel I've taken them as far as I can."

"Alas, my time with Stoney Street and 26Grains has come to an end; I will always be grateful to everyone involved at both sites for making my time there so joyful."

Thanking guests, suppliers and "the incredible people I’ve had the pleasure to work with," the chef teased his potential future plans, adding: "I hope to announce some very exciting news soon, so watch this space…"