The Hut names new head chef upon reopening in March

Isle of Wight restaurant, The Hut has appointed Lucian Romocea as the new head chef as it is poised to officially reopen on 9 March 2022, for their ninth season.

Putting al fresco dining back on the menu, Romocea has been promoted from senior sous chef at the restaurant and will bring his Catalan cooking style from his experience working as a chef in Barcelona.

The restaurant said he was one of the first chefs to join The Ned Hotel in Bank when it launched in May 2017. Joining the team as a senior member, he oversaw the brigade of 45 chefs covering Millie’s Modern British Brasserie and Lutyen’s Grill.

After two years at the Ned, Romocea joined Ian Daw, a former executive chef at the Ned, in the opening of Mama Shelter Hotel in Hackney. He now holds the position of head chef of The Hut Restaurant under Daw, chef director.

In his earlier career, Romocea took on the role of senior sous chef at Bodo’s Schloss, situated beneath the Royal Garden Hotel, High Street Kensington. Prior to this, he worked at Oliver Peyton restaurants, including the Royal Academy of Arts followed by his role as sous chef at Inn the Park.

Romocea said: “I’m delighted to have been appointed as head chef for this iconic coastal destination and working closely again with Ian Daw, who I’ve admired personally and professionally. I’m looking forward to launching a fresh new menu with signature classics and innovative new ideas, whilst leading the team to deliver an unforgettable experience for guests this season.”

George and Matt Adams, co-owners, added: “We’re pleased to appoint Lucian as our new head chef with his combined passion and experience. We can’t wait to open up for the new season and continue to deliver an unrivalled service with some new front of house team members, a brand new seafood menu, along with some exciting experiences in the pipeline.”