Casa Cruz appoints new head chef

Casa Cruz in Notting Hill has announced the appointment of Jacob Rowley as head chef, marking a new chapter for the restaurant as it approaches its 10th anniversary.

Rowley joins Casa Cruz after a tenure at Hampshire’s Oakley Hall, where he received multiple “Restaurant of the Year” awards. 

His career also includes experience in two Michelin-starred restaurants, five-star Mayfair hotels, and a period in Tasmania, where he worked with untouched produce. 

His appointment coincides with the restaurant’s 10th year anniversary, marking the occasion with a new menu that showcases his approach to modern European cuisine while honouring Casa Cruz’s reputation for “sophisticated” dining.

At the heart of Rowley’s approach lies a commitment to sustainable, seasonal sourcing. He believes in celebrating produce at its peak rather than year-round availability, ensuring a menu that evolves with each micro-season and reflects the best of the British Isles. 

The new menu reflects this ethos while introducing several signature dishes that demonstrate Rowley’s “creative flair”. Highlights include hand-picked day boat crab with brown crab brioche French toast, vadouvan lamb belly with pomegranate and mint, as well as vegetarian offerings such as beer molasses glazed salt-baked celeriac.

Yago Crego, executive head chef of Casa Cruz’s parent company, said: “Chef Rowley’s commitment to sustainable sourcing and his creative vision aligns perfectly with Casa Cruz’s evolution during this milestone time. His dedication to building meaningful relationships with local producers and his innovative approach to dining will bring a new flair to the restaurant while maintaining the warmth and elegance our guests have come to expect.”