The Maids Head Hotel are very excited to kick off the new year with a new Head Chef and a new Rosette Menu for the WinePress Restaurant.
The AA 2 Rosette, WinePress Restaurant is heading into 2025 with a fresh new start. The Maids Head Hotel are delighted to introduce their new Head Chef, Alastair Grand. Ali joined the Kitchen Brigade in October. He has many exciting plans for the future of the WinePress. With the busy festive season now under his apron he is raring to go!
Norwich born and bred, Ali originally thought he wanted to be a PE Teacher! But a part time job in a local kitchen at the age of 16 gave him the bug to pursue his career as a Chef. Ali has trained under several well-known local chefs. He aspired to his first sous chef position at the age of 22.
Ali said “My style of cooking is French classics with a modern twist. I joined the Maids Head as I relish the trust given to the Brigade to cook the food we love to produce. I am being supported to strive for a 3rd Rosette which we all want to achieve this year.” He went on to add “The WinePress offers a fine dining experience. Diners can choose between the Rosette Menu or the Tasting Menu, with the option of a wine flight. Menus champion seasonal ingredients sourced from the wealth of local suppliers on our doorstep.”
When asked about his favourite dish on the new Rosette menu Ali was quick to reply. “I prefer savoury over dessert, so it would be the Moroccan pan seared lamb rump infused with liquorice, duchess potato, compressed butternut squash, lamb & apricot tagine, liquorice puree, Moroccan spiced jus. A dish packed full of incredible flavours and also looks exciting on the plate!”
Ali loves to travel and to experience the local cuisine. He is also passionate to get involved with the local Food community. He wants to inspire more young people to consider a hospitality career. Since the pandemic, the industry has lost so many good chefs, Ali is keen to try and turn this around.
In a climate which has seen several fine dining restaurants close their doors for economic reasons, the Hotel is committed to the WinePress. General Manager, Christine Malcolm said “As an independent hotel we are proud to offer our guests the opportunity of a Rosette dining experience. There are also very few City centre restaurants which boast a car park which diners are welcome to use”.
Dinner is served every night between 6.00pm and 8.45pm. In addition there is also our more casual, Classics Menu available. The Classics Menu is served daily between 12.00 and 9.30pm.
Tables can be booked either by calling 01603 272010 or by going online.
