Ian Coogan joins The Barbary Notting Hill

The Staff Canteen

Ian Coogan has joined The Barbary Notting Hill as head chef, bringing with him decades of experience from some of New York City’s most acclaimed restaurants.

Background

Raised in the United States, Ian’s early curiosity for flavour and ingredients was sparked by the diversity of American cuisine.

Originally pursuing a degree in Anthropology and Sociology at Columbia University, he developed a strong understanding of culture and people that would later shape his approach to hospitality and cooking.

In 2004, he earned a Grand Diploma in Culinary Arts from The French Culinary Institute in New York City, marking the start of his professional career. His first major role was at Eleven Madison Park, where he worked every station in the kitchen under chefs Kerry Heffernan and Daniel Humm, learning the foundations of craft, produce and service.

Building experience in New York’s top kitchens

From 2006 to 2009, Ian was executive sous chef at the members-only CORE: club, developing seasonal menus for its private clientele. In 2010, he joined Jean-Georges Vongerichten’s ABC Kitchen as executive sous chef, helping to launch the farm-to-table restaurant. Three years later, he became chef de cuisine at

ABC Cocina, collaborating with Jean-Georges to develop its Latin-inspired menu and team culture.

By 2016, Ian was executive chef of both ABC Kitchen and ABC Cocina, leading a team of more than seventy and overseeing operations serving up to 1,500 guests per day. During this period, he also consulted on international Jean-Georges openings, gaining valuable global experience.

Most recently, Ian worked with chef Ignacio Mattos at Mattos Hospitality, helping to revitalise the kitchens at Altro Paradiso and Café Lodi and rebuild teams during a crucial recovery period for the industry.

A new chapter at The Barbary Notting Hill

Now based in London, Ian takes on the role of head chef at The Barbary Notting Hill, part of Studio Paskin’s growing restaurant group. Centred around open-fire cooking and the cuisines of the Barbary Coast, the restaurant’s food reflects bold flavours, global inspiration and a focus on quality ingredients - qualities that align closely with Ian’s own culinary philosophy.

With a career defined by leadership, mentorship and creative precision, Ian’s move to The Barbary Notting Hill marks the beginning of a new chapter for both chef and restaurant.

 

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The Staff Canteen

The Staff Canteen

Editor 7th November 2025

Ian Coogan joins The Barbary Notting Hill