Claridge’s appoints new culinary director

Claridge’s in London has announced the appointment of Simon Attridge as culinary director. 

Attridge began his career in restaurants, gaining his first Michelin Star at the age of 25. 

He joins from Gleneagles Hotel and Estate, where he held the role of executive chef since 2017 and played a key role in the refurbishment of the hotel and development of the estate. 

Prior to this, he held senior culinary positions at Baxter Storey and Shangri-La across London, Abu Dhabi and Shanghai. 

In his new role at Claridge’s, Attridge will oversee all culinary operations across the hotel, which recently unveiled the new Art Deco inspired Claridge’s Restaurant and is home to four of London’s most awarded bars. 

Regarding his appointment, Attridge said: “It is an honour to be joining the UK’s most prestigious and iconic hotel at such an exciting time. I look forward to working with the incredible talented team as Claridge’s continues to step into the future whilst celebrating its timeless tradition. I hope to bring my passion and enthusiasm for quality, innovation, and a love for good food into this new role.”

Paul Jackson, general manager at Claridge’s, said: “Simon will undoubtedly bring the perfect balance of innovation and creativity, whilst being respectful of our distinguished heritage to ensure we continue to maintain Claridge’s position as one of the leading hotels in the world. 

“It is essential to constantly evolve and embrace change, whilst of course maintaining many of the traditional elements that make the hotel so special and much loved.”