Buckinghamshire: Stoke Park’s chef crowned hotel chef of the year

Chris Wheeler, the executive chef of Stoke Park, the luxury five-red-star country club, spa and hotel, has been named Hotel Chef of the Year (in the over-250-covers category) at the Hotel Cateys Awards. Launched in 2007 these awards are considered the Oscars of the hotel industry. 

The award crowns a magnificent year for Wheeler, who in October won the ‘Chef of the Year’ award at the Berkshire and Buckinghamshire Life Food and Drink Awards 2016, and who also made his debut on BBC 2’s Great British Menu.

Giammario Ragnoli, general manager at Stoke Park, said: “For 13 years Chris has been wowing our guests with his exquisite cuisine and fabulous personality. Thanks to him, Humphry’s, our fine dining restaurant, holds 3 AA Rosettes. His ability to create outstanding dishes for large-scale functions such as our annual The Boodles Tennis, has been greatly admired.” 

Wheeler’s work beyond Stoke Park has included working closely with East Berkshire College to encourage students to enter the world of catering; cooking up a storm on stage at both the Thame Food Festival and Taste of London; supporting local food producers; and raising huge amounts of money for charity. 

Stoke Park, one of Europe's leading five-red-star hotels, is set among 300 acres of parkland, lakes, historic gardens and monuments.