Seaton House appoints new executive chef

Five-star hotel Seaton House in St Andrews, Scotland, has appointed Mark Drummond, a Berwickshire native who has worked in some of the finest kitchens in the UK, as executive chef.

Drummond, who started working as a demi chef de partie 15 years ago, describes being given the opportunity to work alongside Roy Brett and bring Edinburgh Chef’s Ondine concept to St Andrews as a “very exciting proposition”.

The hotel’s operator, Valor Hospitality Partners, confirmed he will start working across Seaton House’s restaurants – Ondine Oyster and Grill and The Board Room – in December,  ahead of the restoration and reopening of the local landmark in February 2025.

With 42 luxury bedrooms including six suites and three junior suites, Seaton House offers five-star luxury hospitality in St Andrews. 

Regarding his appointment, Drummond said: “Getting the chance to work with the exceptional Roy Brett at Seaton House is a dream come true, especially as Ondine is a restaurant I have always been impressed with any time I have been in Edinburgh.

“I really believe the Ondine Oyster & Grill is perfectly suited to St Andrews. The town has a lot of great hotels and restaurants, and we want to establish ourselves among the best the area has to offer. 

He added: “I’m excited to work with Roy, and the team at Seaton House, to showcase the best of Scotland’s larder and hospitality at the home of golf. What we are going to bring to the area is something very different and unique and is something that will, I’m sure, intrigue guests and locals alike. After all, where else could you walk into a hotel lounge and find cured meats and cheeses in a display ready to be sliced to order?”

Roy Brett, chef founder, Seaton House, said: “I am incredibly excited to have Mark join our world-class team at Seaton House. He is one of Scotland’s best young chefs and his passion for local produce makes him a great addition to the team. 

“Seaton House will benefit from his talents and his enthusiasm which will help ensure we, as a team, can deliver best-in-class service and professionalism. His strong work ethic and attention to detail leave me with no doubt that Ondine Oyster and Grill, the Board Room and Old Tom’s Bar will radiate warm and genuine Scottish hospitality.”

Michael Davern, general manager, Seaton House, added: “When it opens its doors in February, Seaton House will provide a culinary experience like no other. Mark Drummond’s appointment is yet another step in this exciting new era for the historic building which is steeped in a legacy of luxury. We cannot wait for guests and locals alike to experience all that Seaton House has to offer.”