Introducing Executive Head Chef Michael Caines MBE

Michael Caines has been Head Chef at Gidleigh Park since 1994 and has held Two Michelin stars since 1999. One of Britain’s most acclaimed Chefs, included in his many accolades and awards are AA chef of the year 2007, and an MBE in 2006.

Throughout 2011 Michael picked up a clutch of awards that are a testament to his ongoing passion for delivering the very finest dining experience.

In the Sunday Times Food list Gidleigh Park once again secured three wins:
• The Remy Martin X.O. Excellence Award for Best Overall Restaurant
• Number one in the South West
• Best Wine List

Add to this a Gold Award from Taste of the West and the title of North West Chef of the year in relation to his role at Abode Manchester.

 It is typical of Michael that in commenting on the awards he paid credit to his team and gave special mention to owners Andrew and Christina Brownsword, restaurant manager Damien Bastiat and head sommelier, Eouard Oger. Michael said “the whole team are ecstatic, these awards come from such a broad base of diners and really are testament to our hard work and commitment to delivering the finest food, wine and service”

Michael’s commitment to Devon and the produce of the South West continues to provide inspiration for his creativity, the theatre of food continues to excite Michael and his cuisine his constantly evolving. It is little wonder that the Sunday Times gave Michael the title “Wizard of the West” for food that is described as “So artistic, it’s scary” but absolutely perfect too.

ABode and Michael Caines, a dynamic partnership.  Michael combines his role as Executive Head Chef at Gidleigh Park and the Bath Priory with his partnership with ABode Hotels. Michael founded Michael Caines Restaurants in 1999 and the next year opened his first signature restaurant Michael Caines at The Royal Clarence in Exeter. In 2003, a chance meeting with Andrew Brownsword resulted in a dynamic partnership and the purchase of The Royal Clarence. Michael and Andrew's shared vision for ABode Hotels and Michael Caines Restaurants is ambitious, exciting and far-reaching. Underlying Michael's philosophy is a passionate belief that good food – and yes great food – should always be inclusive not exclusive, accessible to all, at whatever level.

Leading the way Even with all the ongoing activities and developments, Michael continues to cook regularly at Gideigh Park and alongside his Executive Chefs in ABode Exeter, ABode Canterbury, ABode Manchester and ABode Chester. Says Michael, "Cooking is my passion. I love it and I can never see not being in the kitchens." He is an inspirational leader and loves to share his passion, vision and skills with the teams of talented, enthusiastic chefs that are now working in the kitchens of the restaurants that bear his name. "I love working with my chefs," he says. "We'll develop one of my dishes jointly, and it's fascinating to see how they will take it in their own directions. Just as I learned from the masters, so I hope my chefs will learn from me and continue to develop to the very best of their abilities to fulfil their potential and achieve their ambitions. We can give them this opportunity."

 For further information about Michael Caines, please contact Michael's PA Lisa Partridge tel 01392 223625. www.michaelcaines.com