Chef Ollie Bridgwater teases new project in the Lake District

Ollie Bridgwater, the former executive head chef at the Michelin-starred Source at Gilpin hotel in the Lake District, has hinted at plans for a “new venture” in the Lakes.

In a post on Instagram, the chef revealed he was “incredibly excited” to be heading back to the Lake District after a short time away, and to be starting “a new chapter” in a place he is “so passionate” about.

He wrote: “I’m building a team of talented, energetic and passionate people to join me on an exciting new venture. We will be cooking, serving and showcasing some of the finest produce the Lake District has to offer.

“This is an opportunity to join something right at the beginning. To help build the team, the culture and ultimately something really special.”

Bridgwater said he was hiring for all levels across the kitchen and front of house.

In April, he announced his departure from the four-AA-rosette Source at Gilpin hotel after more than three years as its executive head chef. In May he joined True Foods as head of food and innovation.

Source at Gilpin hotel launched in the former site of the Michelin-starred HRiSHi restaurant, previously headed by chef Hrishikesh Desai.

Previously in his career, Bridgwater was sous chef at Heston Blumenthal’s the Fat Duck in Bray, Berkshire.