Tributes have been paid following the death of chef Chris Wheeler, a respected figure in British hospitality, who most recently worked at The Hurlingham Club in London.
Originally from Swanage in Dorset, Chris built a career spanning Michelin-starred kitchens, luxury hotels and private members’ clubs. Over several decades in the industry he became known for his classical training, produce-led cooking and strong leadership in the kitchen.
News of his death has prompted an outpouring of tributes from chefs and hospitality professionals across the industry.
Early career under Jean-Christophe Novelli
Chris began his culinary career in France at the Domaine de Bassible hotel and Michelin-starred restaurant in the town of Ségos.
His talent was recognised early by chef Jean-Christophe Novelli, who recruited him into his brigade while Chris was still a teenager. He quickly progressed through the ranks and became the youngest sous chef working within Novelli’s kitchens at the time.
Working closely alongside Jean-Christophe, Chris helped deliver Michelin-starred cooking across several of the chef’s restaurants, including operations at Four Seasons Park Lane and Maison Novelli.
The experience helped establish Chris as a technically accomplished chef with a strong grounding in classical French technique.
Twelve years leading the kitchen at Stoke Park
Chris joined Stoke Park in Buckinghamshire in 2003, where he took on the role of executive chef and led the kitchen at the hotel’s fine dining restaurant, Humphry’s.
During his 12 years at the luxury hotel and golf resort, he helped develop Humphry’s into one of the region’s most highly regarded dining destinations.
Under Chris’s leadership, the restaurant was awarded three AA Rosettes and gained national recognition for its modern British cooking rooted in seasonal and locally sourced produce.
His work at Stoke Park also brought several accolades, both personally and for the hotel. The restaurant featured in Tatler’s Restaurant Guide in both 2013 and 2014 and he also won ‘Best Local Menu’ at the Buckinghamshire and Berkshire Life Food and Drink Awards, recognising his commitment to championing regional ingredients.
Great British Menu appearance
Chris appeared on BBC Two’s Great British Menu in 2016, representing the South West region.
His participation in the long-running competition brought his cooking to a wider audience, showcasing a style rooted in modern British cuisine while drawing on the international influences developed throughout his career.
The appearance helped further raise his profile within the UK hospitality scene.
