Gary Townsend to depart One Devonshire Gardens to launch new restaurant

The Staff Canteen

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Chef Gary Townsend has announced he will be leaving One Devonshire Gardens, after more than six years of service, to open his own restaurant.

In a post on his social media, Gary revealed his plans for the future, whilst thanking the hotel's staff and diners.

Commenting on his departure and future roles, Gary said: "After a wonderful 6 years at One Devonshire Gardens, I’ve taken the decisive leap to follow my heart and life-long dream of opening my own restaurant."

He added: "One Devonshire Gardens is a truly magical place that has afforded me the time and space to create, develop and push my boundaries. [I am] now ready to take on the next exciting challenge."

"Although I’m not leaving until early next year, I want to formally recognise and thank my wonderful team, management and all the people at the hotel who have supported and guided me during my tenure. I’ll be staying on to support the smooth transition and I hope to welcome some of you through the doors during that time," Gary said.

After a wonderful 6 years at One Devonshire Gardens, I’ve taken the decisive leap to follow my heart and life-long dream of opening my own restaurant.
One Devonshire Gardens is a truly magical place that has afforded me the time and space to create,develop and push my boundaries- pic.twitter.com/dfHy6ZGnma
— Gary Townsend (@ChefGTownsend) December 18, 2023

Who is chef Gary Townsend?

Gary Townsend has worked as Head Chef at One Devonshire Gardens for the last six years.

After studying at college in Peterborough, Gary worked at Tuddenham Mill under Michelin-starred chef Paul Foster and Lee Bye.

In 2011, Gary took up a sous chef position at Edinburgh's one Michelin-starred Restaurant Martin Wishart, where he spent five years gaining valuable experience from one of Scotland's most recongised chefs.

Gary has also held positions at a Cameron House in Loch Lomond where he worked as head chef at the restaurant.

Since joining One Devonshire Gardens in 2017, Gary has helped the hotel pick up 3 AA rosettes, and recognition after the top 10 at the National Chef of the Year awards in both 2021 and 2022.

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A post shared by Gary Townsend (@chef.g.townsend)

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