Michelin-starred The Ninth names Filippo Alessandri executive chef and partner
Michelin-starred Fitzrovia restaurant The Ninth has announced the promotion of its head chef, Filippo Alessandri, to executive chef.
The move marks a significant step in the restaurant’s evolution, as Alessandri also becomes a shareholder and business partner alongside chef-patron Jun Tanaka and founding partner Jim Barry.
A decade of The Ninth
Opened in November 2015, The Ninth quickly established itself as one of Fitzrovia’s most highly regarded dining destinations, earning a Michelin star within a year of opening and retaining it ever since.
Read more: Chef Jun Tanaka's The Ninth to reopen this March
Known for its relaxed yet refined approach to modern European cooking, the restaurant has built a loyal following among London customers and visiting chefs alike.
Filippo’s journey
Alessandri first joined The Ninth in 2017 as a chef de partie, before working his way up through the kitchen brigade. Prior to his arrival in Fitzrovia, he honed his skills at some of the capital’s most respected addresses, including The Dining Room at The Goring and the Covent Garden bistro Cora Pearl.
His promotion to executive chef is the culmination of nearly a decade working under Jun’s mentorship.
Filippo said: “I started out as a CDP, full of passion and determination, and now I’m thrilled to have the opportunity to be Jun’s business partner. For me, that feels like closing the circle, and I’m deeply grateful for the trust that Jun and Jim are putting in me. Jun is the epitome of a leader; I always look up to him, and I truly believe in the culture that he has created at The Ninth.”
Leadership and culture
For Jun, Filippo's impact extends well beyond the pass.
He said: “Filippo is one of the most talented chefs that I’ve had the privilege to work with. But what sets him apart is not just his cooking, it’s the way he leads. His calm, empathetic style lifts everyone around him and makes them want to be better, myself included. He lives and breathes the values and culture we’ve built at The Ninth over the past ten years. I can’t think of anyone better to lead our team in shaping the future of The Ninth.”
That focus on culture has been critical to The Ninth’s sustained success. The restaurant has developed a reputation for nurturing talent and fostering a collaborative atmosphere, a contrast to the high-pressure environments that have often defined London fine dining.
Fitzrovia’s competitive dining scene
The appointment also comes at a time of renewed activity in Fitzrovia, where established names such as Pied à Terre continue to evolve, and new openings like Motorino are reshaping the neighbourhood’s dining identity.
The Ninth’s decision to solidify its leadership team reflects confidence in its position and ambition to remain at the forefront of the area’s restaurant scene.
Looking ahead
As executive chef, Alessandri will lead the creative direction of The Ninth, ensuring the restaurant continues to evolve while staying true to its roots.
He said: “I’m very proud of our incredible team, and I can’t wait to keep cooking with them and constantly evolving what The Ninth is – and what it will be.”
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