Karol Płoch leaves Kerridge's Bar and Grill

Karol Płoch has announced his departure from Kerridge’s Bar and Grill, marking the end of a long chapter working under chef Tom Kerridge in one of London’s most high-profile restaurant settings.

Karol shared the news on social media, confirming his decision to move on while expressing deep appreciation for the opportunities and mentorship he received during his time at the restaurant.

He said he was excited to begin 'a new chapter' and thanked the wider team for their support.

A long tenure within the Kerridge restaurant group

Karol’s work at Kerridge’s Bar and Grill placed him within a wider ecosystem that has become closely associated with Tom’s chef development. 

Within those features, chefs such as Nick Beardshaw and James Shaw have spoken openly about Tom Kerridge's influence, crediting him with shaping their leadership style, technical discipline and approach to hospitality. 

Karol reflected that same sentiment in his announcement, saying: “After many years working alongside the incredible chef and mentor Tom Kerridge, my time there has come to an end.

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

A post shared by Karol Płoch (@karolploch)

"I’m incredibly grateful for the opportunities I’ve had and for the chance to work with such an amazing team. I’m excited for what comes next and look forward to this new chapter. Thank you all!”

Karol has not yet announced his next move, but given his experience and the high-level environment in which he has trained, his next step will be followed closely across the industry.

About Tom 

Tom Kerridge is a renowned British chef who has gained significant recognition for his culinary skills and expertise. With his charming personality and expertise in the kitchen, he has become a household name in the UK's culinary scene. 

Tom attended catering college in Cheltenham before moving to London, where he honed his skills under Philip Britton, Steven Bull and Gary Rhodes.

He then moved to Norwich to work at Adlards, then a Michelin-starred modern European restaurant owned by David Adlard and headed by chef Roger Hickman.

In 2005, Tom and  his wife Beth decided it was time to spread their own wings and purchased the Hand & Flowers pub in Marlow.

Their pub has a comfortable atmosphere combined with high quality food, for which it was awarded a Michelin star in 2006, followed by a second in 2012, making it the first pub (or gastropub) in the UK to do so. It has retained both stars ever since.

Tom also starred in two series of the BBC's Great British Menu and is now part of the judging panel.

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The Staff Canteen

The Staff Canteen

Editor 9th December 2025

Karol Płoch leaves Kerridge's Bar and Grill