Executive chef at Rookery Hall Hotel and Spa Dion Wyn Jones has been named National Chef of Wales 2026 by the Culinary Association of Wales.
Jones, who has led the kitchen at the Cheshire hotel for more than four years, defeated six other finalists to secure the title. The competition tested chefs across multiple heats on their technical skill, creativity, and professionalism.
The winning menu featured poached cod with Welsh seafood mousse followed by pan-roasted Welsh lamb canon with a lovage crust. Jones completed the service with a dessert of chocolate mousse served with poached pear and honey syrup.
Rookery Hall, part of the Hand Picked Hotels group, currently holds three AA rosettes for its restaurant. The group operates 21 properties across the UK and the Channel Islands.
Jones said: “Winning National Chef of Wales is a huge honour especially as I am a proud Welshman. I’m incredibly grateful for the support and encouragement from the team at Rookery Hall Hotel and Spa and Hand Picked Hotels, which allowed me to push myself and compete at this level.”
General manager at Rookery Hall James Wiseman added: “With Dion at the helm of The Restaurant at Rookery Hall Hotel & Spa, every day we are delivering simple, elegant and imaginative menus of contemporary vibrant British food. He champions the finest fresh local produce to curate seasonal fare, delivering flavourful dishes which is why we are extremely pleased to see his talent recognised with this national title.”
Chair of Hand Picked Hotels Julia Hands said: “Delivering exceptional food and wine experiences at our hotels is at the heart of Hand Picked Hotels. Awards like this encourage the team to strive for excellence which is why we are incredibly pleased to see Dion’s talent being recognised on a national level.
“We are passionate about investing in our people and actively encourage and support our talented chefs to develop, compete and succeed at the highest level. This award is a wonderful reflection of that commitment.”
