Mason Winwood talks all things No6 following promotion

Mason Winwood is the new head chef at a Michelin-starred restaurant in Padstow.

Under the wing of Paul Ainsworth over the last decade, Mason has risen through the ranks at No6.

Mason has over 10 years of experience at the award-winning restaurant.

No6 has also received four AA Rosettes and is included in the Good Food Guide's top 50 UK restaurants.

He replaced Chris McClurg who also worked his way up to chef patron and earned the restaurant its first Michelin star in 2012.

Chris also congratulated Mason on the promotion, he said: “One of the most committed young chefs I have had the pleasure to work alongside, and watch grow into the unshakable stalwart he is. Congratulations Mase.”

The Staff Canteen spoke with Mason to talk all things No6 and Cornwall.

Can you tell me a bit about your culinary background?

"I did my level 2 NVQ in a work environment rather than a traditional classroom setting. I was one of the first students to do that through the college, and my work placement was purely based in the restaurant. It was a different route, but it allowed me to gain practical experience from the start, which really helped shape my career."

"One of my best mate's dad was doing some work for Paul, and at the time Paul was looking for a young chef apprentice. I got in contact, phoned Paul one day, had an interview with him, and yeah, the rest is history. I’ve been here for nearly ten years now — it'll be 10 years in November — and it’s been an incredible journey."

How are you finding the new head chef position? 

"I've been here for nearly ten years now, and I think what’s been really special is the way I’ve been able to grow within the company. It’s been a steady climb, learning from incredible people along the way. I’ve gained so much experience, and it’s really shaped me into the chef I am today."

"It’s amazing — it really is. The role is so rewarding, and I feel incredibly proud to be in this position. What’s special is that I’ve had the chance to come up through the ranks properly, step by step, building experience and confidence. I feel ready for the role, and I’m excited to take it by the horns and really make my mark."

What changes are you planning on making to No6? 

"There are quite a few exciting changes in the works. I’m sure you saw some of the dishes we showcased in the video, and we’re also looking at introducing a new menu concept. We’ve done tasting menus before, but there are a few fresh ideas I’m eager to bring to the table. I really want to evolve the dining experience while keeping true to what makes No6 special."

"For me, creating a positive work-life balance for the team is incredibly important. The days of spending 100 hours a week in the kitchen are gone — that’s not how you get the best out of people. When the team is rested and happy, the energy and creativity they bring to the kitchen is just incredible. Building a strong and motivated team environment is something I really value."

How has Paul helped you over the years?

“Paul and Emma are absolutely incredible people to work for. They’ve built such a fantastic company culture that makes you feel supported and motivated. They know how to get the best out of you — they set goals, they challenge you, but they also support you every step of the way. It’s been such a rewarding experience working with them, and I honestly couldn’t imagine working anywhere else."

"Paul is a huge believer in promoting from within, and that’s something I really respect. Rather than outsourcing a head chef position, he invests in his team and gives people the time and space to develop. If someone isn’t quite ready for the next step, Paul takes the time to guide them — showing them what they need to improve on and helping them achieve it. That’s exactly what happened with me. I didn’t apply for the head chef role — Paul made it clear that I was the person they wanted, and he supported me in developing the skills I needed to be ready for that responsibility."

Paul and No6

Southampton-born Paul Ainsworth is the successful chef and restaurateur behind Paul Ainsworth at No6, Caffè Rojano, Padstow Townhouse and The Mariners - all located on the North Cornwall coast. In 2005 Paul became Head Chef at Padstow’s No6 before taking over the business with his wife Emma in 2009, earning a Michelin star in 2013.

The four course menu at the restaurant showcases Cornish produce at its best and, while more refined, what binds it to the cooking at the rest of his restaurants is Paul’s focus on making exquisite food fun. In 2011, Paul acquired Rojano’s in Padstow, a Mediterranean restaurant opened by Stanley Rojano in 1974. Now called Caffè Rojano, and inspired by the couple’s love of New York’s Italian American café culture, it serves a Mediterranean-inspired menu, also using seasonal Cornish produce.

Padstow Townhouse opened in 2015, a six-suite boutique hotel in Padstow’s Old Town, realising the couple’s dream of offering their guests somewhere to stay. In 2019, Paul and Emma acquired The Mariners Public House in Rock, across The Camel Estuary from Padstow, and reopened it following a major refurbishment.

The No6 team also announced a second change on its social media, it added: "Our Front of House team is the heartbeat of the restaurant, and today, I’m thrilled to celebrate some incredible promotions. If you’ve dined with us before, you’ll no doubt recognise these familiar faces who have been integral to creating the experience we’re known for.

"Liam Evans steps into his new role as Head Sommelier and Operations Director, bringing expertise, leadership, and vision to shape the future. Jade Moss becomes Restaurant Director, ensuring every guest experiences the warmth, precision, and excellence that define our service. Loren Cooper takes on the role of Food & Beverage Director, crafting unforgettable dining experiences with perfect pairings and refined details."