Coincidentally after featuring Aubergine at the Compleat Angler as my Restaurant of the Week last week, I have just learnt that head chef William Drabble has left.
Drabble, who took over the reins at Aubergine from Gordon Ramsay, has spent more than a decade behind the stove at the Chelsea restaurant. During this time he retained its Michelin star and successfully launched a sister restaurant in Marlow last autumn.
But all good things must come to an end and Drabble has decided that the time has come for him to pursue other opportunities.
His departure coincides with that of the London Fine Dining Group's marketing and operations director David Herbert.
Look out for further details on Caterersearch.
UPDATE
Just got a statement from the London Fine Dining Group confirming both Drabble and Herbert's departure. Both are under a confidentiality agreement so unable to share their reasons for leaving.
"David left the group to pursue other business opportunities pursuant to the terms of a confidential settlement agreement," it said.
If one was cynical one could deduce a bust-up...
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Oh dear, I was just about to book a break at the Compleat Angler, including a dinner at Aubergine; inspired by your Restaurant of the Month post. Hmmm, given the break is going to be in December, let’s hope the wheels haven’t come off completely by then.
Thanks Grobs, I feel very flattered that my post inspired you to visit the Compleat Angler. As long as Miles Nixon remains head chef, I'm sure you'll have a lovely dining experience at Aubergine.
And if not there are always Adam Simmonds and Tom Kerridge down the road ;-)
Oh..the halcyon days of Xavier Rugeroni at the helm, Gary Houillebec in charge of the kitchen, and Mrs.M dishing out the vino to the somelliers,..Valerio Filippini heading up the restaurant firm, and of course Luc Provot... How it has all changed since 1982.