Jake Jones, Head Chef, Forge at Middleton Lodge Estate

Jake Jones, the head chef at Forge Middleton Lodge Estate, gained significant recognition when he was honoured at the Michelin Awards for Great Britain and Ireland 2024, with the Michelin Young Chef of the Year award. the Forge was also awarded a Michelin Green Star, celebrating its commitment to ethical and environmental standards—a testament to the sustainable practices integral to the restaurant's operations.

Biography

Jake was raised in York and immersed in the culinary world from a young age, influenced by his father and uncle, both professional chefs. This early exposure instilled in him a profound passion for cooking, shaping his future in gastronomy.

Jake’s journey through prestigious kitchens, including the Star Inn at Harome and the Black Swan at Oldstead, and his time at three Michelin-starred chef Simon Rogan’s L’enclume now in Cumbria, equipped him with invaluable experiences and deepened his commitment to sustainable culinary practices before joining the team at Middleton Lodge Estate as head chef of the Coach House in 2021 and in February 2023 Jake opened the Forge restaurant on the estate.

Forge, Middleton Lodge Estate

Located on the historic grounds of Middleton Lodge Estate in Middleton Tyas, North Yorkshire, Forge is a fine dining venue celebrated for its ‘estate to plate’ ethos. Under Jake’s leadership, the restaurant emphasises a menu that resonates with the seasons and landscape of North

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Yorkshire.

This commitment is supported by the estate’s extensive renovations by the Allison family, which have transformed it into a sustainable haven with two award-winning restaurants. The estate spans 200 acres, including a kitchen garden that provides Jake with the fresh produce necessary to craft his innovative and seasonal dishes. This direct access to ingredients minimises food miles and enhances the creativity and quality of his menu offerings.

Culinary Philosophy and Achievements

Jake’s culinary philosophy is deeply rooted in sustainability and the utilisation of local, seasonally available products. His approach has earned Forge a Michelin Green Star and established him as a leader in sustainable dining. Jake’s dedication to the 'estate to plate' philosophy is a reflection of Middleton Lodge’s overall commitment to environmental stewardship, which includes extensive parklands and sustainably managed resources.

Under Jake’s guidance, Forge continues to set benchmarks in the culinary industry, providing guests with exceptional dining experiences that are as responsibly managed as they are delightful. His leadership and visionary culinary practices ensure that Forge remains at the forefront of the sustainable dining movement, celebrated for both its cuisine and its commitment to the environment.

Photography by: Rebecca Hope Photography and Gasp Photo Co.

Other Michelin Star Chefs

1 Michelin Star Chefs: James Murray, Timberyard

1 Michelin Star Chefs: Surender Mohan, executive chef, Jamavar

1 Michelin Star Chefs: Mike North, chef patron, The Nut Tree

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