Ian Swainson named Head Chef at The Pass, South Lodge

Michelin star chef, Ian Swainson, is today announced as the new Head Chef at The Pass, South Lodge, an Exclusive Hotel near Horsham, West Sussex.

Ian joins The Pass from luxury country house hotel, the Samling, in Cumbria where he earned the restaurant 3 AA Rosettes and a Michelin star which he has held for the last three years.

Ian commented: “I am delighted to be joining The Pass and the wider team within the Exclusive Hotels and Venues group that share my creative vision and support my ambition to deliver the very best – I am really looking forward to developing my food within such an established restaurant and cannot wait to get started.”

Cooking Michelin-starred cuisine for over 15 years in hotels and restaurants including l’ortolan in Reading, Seaham Hall in County Durham, Le Becasse in Ludlow and Chewton Glen in Hampshire, Ian’s food has been described as modern fine dining that packs real flavour.

David Connell, General Manger at South Lodge commented, “We’re looking forward to welcoming Ian to The Pass, bringing his vision and creativity to our open-plan restaurant that puts diners right at the heart of the drama. Working within a few feet of our guests, Ian has a unique opportunity to showcase his culinary talent and engaging personality and offer diners a truly interactive and memorable dining experience.”

Danny Pecorelli, Managing Director of Exclusive Hotels and Venues added, “We are delighted to welcome Ian to the Exclusive team.  Ian is a fantastic fresh talent so we are confident he will build on the solid foundations and reputation of The Pass and create delicious and ambitious food our diners will love.”

The announcement follows confirmation that Matt Gillan will leave The Pass at the end of April following ten years at South Lodge.