Grove of Narberth appoints Michelin-starred Douglas Balish as executive chef

Douglas Balish

Douglas Balish

Head Chef 4th March 2019
Douglas Balish

Douglas Balish

Head Chef

Grove of Narberth appoints Michelin-starred Douglas Balish as executive chef

Michelin starred Douglas Balish will join the team as the new Executive Chef at the Grove of Narberth on May 1st. Douglas will take over the reins from Allister Barsby who is moving to Kent to open his first solo restaurant venture in Hythe.

Born in Scotland, Douglas began his career in Ayrshire before gaining a wealth of experience in some of the top ranked restaurants in the UK including Bohemia and Whatley Manor, as well as the world-renowned Quay restaurant in Sydney. He joined The Tudor Room in 2014 and was first awarded a Michelin Star in 2016 which it still holds. The restaurant was also awarded 4 coveted AA Rosettes in 2018.

In Spring 2018, the Grove announced the launch of 2 new restaurants following the recent refurbishment, providing both fine and relaxed dining options for their guests. Douglas' arrival comes as further investment is planned in both the restaurant spaces and the kitchens themselves to give him the ability to reinvent the Fernery and Artisan Rooms offering in his own guise.

General Manager of the Grove of Narberth, Thomas Agius Ferrante said: ‘Dougie is an exceptional talent and a lovely chap to boot. He was the perfect fit for our business and has the proven ability to inspire the team to progress the quality standards here at the Grove. His desire to be working with us in Pembrokeshire and his palpable enthusiasm for our product was sincere and refreshing.’

Douglas Balish, future Executive Chef said: ‘I am really excited to be taking this important step in my career working for a venue with the clear stated ambition for the future. Working by the sea in Pembrokeshire with such a rich larder of local produce on my doorstep is the perfect role for me.’

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