Cornish Chef Chris Eden Takes the Helm at Watergate Bay Hotel

Chris Eden to lead culinary vision at iconic beachside hotel

Watergate Bay Hotel has announced that Cornwall-born Chris Eden will take over as executive head chef on 1st October 2024. Chris, the first Cornishman to win a Michelin star in Cornwall, will head up the hotel’s culinary offerings across all three of its restaurants.

A Cornishman Comes Home

Chris, who was raised in St Austell, brings decades of experience from some of the UK’s most highly regarded kitchens. His culinary career began at St Austell College, and after gaining valuable experience in London at establishments such as Knightsbridge’s Lanesborough and Mayfair’s The Square, he returned to Cornwall to cement his name on the local food scene.

Chris’s first Michelin star came during his time as head chef at the Driftwood Hotel on the Roseland peninsula, where he retained the prestigious accolade from 2012 until his departure in 2019. He then moved to Devon to work at Gidleigh Park, where he earned a Michelin star in 2023 for his innovative approach to flavour. Now, Chris is excited to return to Cornwall to lead Watergate Bay’s kitchens, saying that his career has been leading to this defining moment.

A New Chapter for Watergate Bay

Chris will work closely with head chefs Ben Ambridge, Dani Bolton, Nick Giles, and Anthony Quinn, to evolve the hotel’s dining experiences. Watergate Bay’s restaurants include the relaxed dining of The Living Space, and the refined elegance of Zacry’s, which overlooks the sea.

Excited by the challenge ahead, Chris is particularly keen to tap into Cornwall’s renowned local suppliers and seasonal produce. He says his ethos has always been to know his suppliers and celebrate the best of the West Country’s offerings, ensuring the dishes are grounded in seasonality and local flavours.

Chris’s first major project will be launching a new autumn menu at Zacry’s, where his culinary style and commitment to local ingredients will take centre stage.

A Vision for the Future

Will Ashworth, founder and executive director of Watergate Bay, expressed his excitement about the future with Chris on board. Describing him as a perfect fit for the role, Will said Chris’s passion and talent will help elevate the dining experience for guests and visitors alike.

Chris, a long-time visitor to Watergate Bay with his family, understands the hotel’s importance to locals and visitors. He is committed to ensuring that every dining experience, from a hearty hot chocolate at The Beach Hut to the seasonal dishes at Zacry’s, is memorable.

For more information, visit Watergate Bay Hotel.

Chris Eden officially starts his new role on 1 October, marking the beginning of a new culinary chapter at Watergate Bay.