Industry colleagues have paid tribute to Mark Hix, chef-director at Caprice Holdings, following his resignation after 17 years with the group.

Matthew Fort, food editor of the Guardian, led the praise, and said: "He is a well-respected and highly skilled chef with a shrewd eye for what people like to eat, and I'm sure that in returning to his West Country roots we will see him emerge again with great success."

Rob Kirby, chef-director at Lexington Catering, said that Hix will undoubtedly go on to be hugely successful. "Mark has always been ahead of his time and has kept his food very simple," he said. "I'm not surprised at his move as a chef you are always looking for progress and new stimulation."

During his time at Caprice Holdings, Hix has overseen a line-up of landmark London eateries through two changes of ownership including the Ivy, Le Caprice and J Sheekey.

It is thought that Hix will continue working as a consultant for Caprice Holdings after his departure.

Menuwatch: Le Caprice, London >>

By Kerstin Kühn

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