A renowned Isle of Wight chef has taken on a new role at the popular luxury hotel The Royal in Ventnor.
Tom Axford is now the head chef at the 4-star venue on Belgrave Road and is promising to bring a 'fresh energy' to the hotel's Geranium Restaurant and wider culinary offerings.
Tom was head chef and co-owner of Kynge's Well in Brading, before top posts at The George Hotel and Salty's Bar and Restaurant, which gained two AA rosettes under his tenure.
Most recently, he helped create the eight-course tasting menu at Robert Thompson's RT Cafe and Grill in Ryde.
Many Royal menu favourites will stay, but Tom will add new dishes.
Tom said: "The Royal has such a strong history and reputation on the Island, so it is exciting to have the opportunity to build on that and bring fresh ideas to our guests.
"I want The Royal to feel somewhere you can come for a relaxed lunch with family or friends one day and return to for a special dinner another evening, with both experiences receiving the same intimate care and attention.
"We have fantastic produce here on the Isle of Wight and that will play a big part in what we do."
The hotel has 51 bedrooms and has held two AA rosettes for 30 years.
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