The Seaham Hall hotel appoints new head chef

19th April 2011, 8:23am

The Seaham Hall in County Durham, part of the von Essen hotels group, has appointed Ian Swainson as the new head chef.

Swainson joins Seaham Hall after spending four years at the La Becasse restaurant in Shropshire.

The 28 year old is very excited about the move:  "I always knew that the North East was one of the best areas for local produce in the UK. From the lush Northumbrian pastures to the North Sea the sheer abundance and quality of local ingredients is incredible.  My new menu will hopefully create a take on North East produce that will excite people and tantalize the taste buds."

His new menu includes dishes such as 'grilled local mackerel, pickled radish, wasabi, avocado and mango salsa' to start, 'Northumberland beef sirloin, horseradish, oyster, parsley porridge and red wine jus' as a main course; and 'caramel soufflé , Newcastle brown ale ice cream and golden raisins' for dessert.

General manager Bernard Bloodworth says the new appointment marks an exciting new chapter in Seaham Hall's food history. "We had an incredible number of nominations from the general public and applications. Ian stood out for us through his creativity, flair the taste of his food.  We truly believe Ian will deliver something special in the North East, and the Michelin star that the region deserves."

Related Articles:

• 17 Jun 2010 - von Essen hotel group announces Verta opening date
• 09 Jun 2010 - Von Essen hotel group appoints general manager
• 16 Nov 2009 - von Essen wins another four accolades

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