As chef patron, Handling will oversee the hotel’s entire food and beverage operation, including the restaurant, bar, Cadogan tea lounge, private dining, events and room service.

Simmonds will meanwhile take responsibility for the day-to-day running of Adam Handling Chelsea, working closely with Handling on a day-to-day basis to decide the menu.

Handling said: ‘I’m really looking forward to working with Adam – I’ve been following his career for a while now and I love his style of food. It’s very similar to mine.

“We were having a drink recently and chatting about working together, and realised it would actually work really well.

“Adam’s got great experience and I always say ‘if you want to produce the best and be the best, you surround yourself with greatness.’ I believe that Adam is going to be a great asset to the Adam Handling Group.”
 


Simmonds brings circa 30 years experience to the role, having working in some of the UK’s top restaurants and hotels including Le Gavroche, The Ritz, Les Saveurs and Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons

He said: ‘I love the idea of working with Adam and Belmond – they’re two well-known and well-loved companies and I really believe in their vision for the hotel.

“I’ve been in the industry for a long time, and I think that experience will help me create something special for guests at Adam Handling Chelsea.’