Dukes appoints Michelin-starred chef Nigel Mendham from the Samling

Michelin-starred chef Nigel Mendham has been appointed to oversee the launch of a new restaurant at the five-star, 90-bedroom Dukes hotel, London.

Mendham will join Dukes in the summer from the Samling hotel in the Lake District, which currently has a Michelin star and three AA rosettes. The Samling is owed by Von Essen Hotels, which went into administration last month.

Dukes general manager Debrah Dhugga, who was previously managing director of Tom's Companies, the former owner of the Samling, said she was excited about Mendham joining the team.

"I have always been a huge fan of Nigel's food and I am delighted to have secured him for Dukes," she said. "His skills and presence will be a fantastic addition to the hotel as he brings with him new ideas to help launch the new restaurant."

Mendham said moving to London had come at the right time in his career. "This is a very exciting opportunity and I am looking forward to launching the new restaurant and working with Debrah again,' he said.

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By Janet Harmer

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