A talented chef who has been working in award-winning kitchens for almost 20 years has taken the helm at one of Kent ’s most celebrated restaurants. Michael Fowler, 37, has been appointed as Head Chef of The Marquis, the 5-star fine-dining ‘restaurant with rooms’ in Kent’s picturesque Alkham Valley.
He joins The Marquis from Prince’s Golf Club and Brasserie on the Bay in Sandwich, where he worked as Head Chef and gained two coveted AA Rosettes. Michael’s career has also included periods at renowned restaurants in France and Canada, as well as across the UK – including the Michelin Star Walnut Tree in Abergavenny, Wales.
Charl Oberholster, manager at The Marquis, said: “Michael’s appointment demonstrates our continuing commitment to putting exceptional food at the heart of what we offer and we’re delighted to welcome him. He shares our passion for food and has the flair, imagination and dedication to build on The Marquis’s excellent reputation for fine dining and take it to the next level.”
Speaking about his appointment, Michael said: “The Marquis really suits my style of modern English cuisine and the way I like to cook, and I’m looking forward to introducing my own take on some very classic dishes.
“I’m also keen to make more of The Marquis’s garden, which is a lovely space with wonderful views. I’m creating some sharing dishes that will be perfect for everyone who likes al fresco dining in a beautiful setting, but I’d like to think that all of our menus can be enjoyed in the garden as well as in the restaurant.”
Michael has been joined at The Marquis by a familiar face – his brother David, 34, from Deal, who has been appointed as Sous Chef. The brothers previously worked together at the Prince’s Golf Club, where David spent two years training under Michael.
Accolades
The Marquis has already earned a number of accolades, including Restaurant of the Year in the 2012 Taste of Kent Awards and a Trip Advisor Certificate of Excellence in 2013 and 2014. It is one of just six restaurants in the county to hold 3 AA rosettes and is also featured in The Good Hotel Guide.
The Marquis
The fine dining experience at The Marquis is constantly evolving, with innovative new menus packed with robust, fresh flavours. Last year it introduced a 10 Mile Menu, which is regularly refreshed to feature seasonal ingredients sourced from within just 10 miles of the restaurant.
Since it opened in 2008, The Marquis has been at the forefront of the ‘restaurant with rooms’ concept, which is rapidly growing in popularity. Charl said: “The ‘restaurant with rooms’ is still a relatively new idea but one which lovers of fine food and wine are increasingly embracing.
“Great food needs great wine and diners come here from across the county and all over the UK to be able to enjoy both without having to worry about getting home afterwards. Knowing that a good night’s sleep is just a few steps away at the end of their meal is very appealing.”
As well as earning plaudits for its food, The Marquis has attracted praise for its sumptuous accommodation – 10 beautiful, individually designed bedrooms and two country retreat cottages – gaining an AA 5 Gold Star rating in the ‘Restaurant with Rooms’ category.
The Marquis is in Alkham Valley Road , Alkham, in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, yet just five minutes from the M20.
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