Douglas Balish to take the reins at Pembrokeshire's Grove of Narberth
The Scotland-born Balish attracted a Michelin star for his cooking at The Tudor Room at Great Fosters hotel in Surrey in 2016. His CV also includes Whatley Manor Hotel in the Cotswolds and high profile Sydney restaurant Quay.
As executive chef, he will oversee the Grove’s fine dining Fernery restaurant and Artisan rooms, which were refurbished in spring 2018. His appointment comes as further investment is planned by owner The Seren Collection in both the hotel's restaurant and kitchen areas, which will give Balish the room "to reinvent both spaces in his own image".
“I am really excited to be taking this important step in my career, working with a venue that has a clear stated ambition for the future,” he says. “Working by the sea in Pembrokeshire with such a rich larder of local produce on my door step is the perfect role for me.”
“Douglas is an exceptional talent and a lovely chap to boot. He was the perfect fit for our business and has the proven ability to inspire the team to progress the quality standards here at the Grove,” says general manager Thomas Agius Ferrante.
Barsby's upcoming departure was announced earlier this year. He is planning to launch a restaurant in Hythe, Kent, with his partner Alice Bussi. Previous to the Grove of Narbeth, Barsby spent three years as head chef at two-Michelin-starred Gidleigh Park, cooking under Michael Caines.
