Steven Lamb is the new head chef at The Orangery at Rockcliffe

Stevie Lamb has been named head chef at The Orangery at Rockcliffe in Darlington, County Durham.

Originally from Lancashire, Stevie moved to the North East of England in 2013, joining The Orangery as a junior chef de partie in 2016. 

He was promoted and named head chef in January 2022, and will continue to work at the three AA Rosette Rockliffe restaurant under executive resort chef Martin Horsley.

Upon taking on his new role, the chef said: “My passion for food has been present since an early age. This dedication has developed a life-long drive to achieve my professional goals including being awarded three AA Rosettes as my first accolade, and ultimately, I hope to earn a Michelin Star."

Inspired by the skills and techniques of today's great chefs, Gareth Ward, Tommy Banks and Paul Leonard, Stevie said he is eager to make the best use of local ingredients, championing sustainability as well as experimenting with the illusion of food and sensory cooking techniques.

He will do so by continuing to grow the estate's kitchen garden, as well as foraging in the local woodlands, creating dishes showcasing the best the North of England has to offer.

“I like simple food, done well – not overly complex or fussy – yet showcasing modern, creative culinary techniques,” he said.