Ian Matfin

Ian was born in Newcastle and learned basic cookery skills at an early age from his mum and gran. He started his cooking career at the city’s Country House Hotel and didn’t look back, going on to cook at the only Michelin-starred restaurant in the north-east at the time, Newcastle’s 21 Queen Street. From there Ian worked at a number of prestigious London restaurants including Gordon Ramsay’s Claridge’s and Aubergine and Raymond Blanc’s Le Manoir aux Quat’ Saisons. He also worked for six years at Michael Caines’ Gidleigh Park, where he became head chef. Ian has worked with Michael for many years and describes him as an inspiration. Although Ian lives in Manchester, using local produce in his dishes such as Cheshire beef, Yorkshire apples and Cumbrian lamb, he still considers himself a true Geordie.