Media Release

New Head Chef inspired by Raymond Blanc is appointed at the only 4 star hotel on Portland: The Ocean Hotel & Spa Retreat

A new head chef, Tom Skowronski, has been appointed at Portland-based 4 Star Ocean Hotel & Spa's prestigious Cliff Restaurant and with Tom's arrival comes a fresh approach to the hotel's cuisine and a determination to be awarded a coveted two rosette award.www.theoceanhotelandspa.co.uk

Tom, aged 40, has a distinguished career and was previously chef at Harbour Heights in Poole as well as several other hotels in the area. He reveals that Raymond Blanc is his inspiration when it comes to food as his approach is similar to Tom's Polish mother who believed in working with whatever was in season and sourcing it locally. He says, "We will be serving up some amazing food and many of the dishes will be made using sous vide -a method of cooking in vacuum sealed plastic pouches at precisely controlled temperatures - a method that has become better known since it was championed in theBBC Masterchef Professional series. "

The Cliff Restaurant is aptly named and diners are greeted with panoramic views across the sparkling waters of Portland Race and can look out at the breathtaking views of the three lighthouses at Portland Bill while enjoying Tom's interpretation of modern British dining with a dash of multi-cultural inspiration. Owner of the hotel and restaurant, Verna Herry, is from the Caribbean Spice Island, Grenada, and is keen for guests to also take advantage of the themed restaurant nights that are being designed to provide some delicious culinary experiences from further afield.

The restaurant is open for lunch to both residents and non-residents everyday from 12 - 2pm (and is open from 12 - 3pm on Sundays). Serving for evening meals begins at 6pm.

To make a reservation, call 01305 470049 or for further information about the Ocean Hotel & SpaE/:enquiries@theoceanhotelandspa.co.ukor T/: 01305 826 060

Further press information or images: Jane Adkins, A Head for PR Ltd, E/:jane@aheadforpr.co.ukor T/: 01935 813114

April 2014 (OH 01)