Adam Simmonds set to leave Danesfield House to start up new venture

The executive chef of Danesfield House Hotel in Marlow has announced he will be leaving to pursue his dream of running an independent restaurant.

Adam Simmonds, who took over the kitchen at the Henley Road hotel in January 2007, will be temporarily hanging up his apron at the end of October to spend time seeking investment for his own venture.

Adam's self-titled fine-dining restaurant within the hotel achieved a Michelin star in 2011.

He also oversaw Danesfield's brasserie restaurant as well as the hotel's banqueting operation and afternoon tea.

Adam Simmonds achieved 4 AA rosettes and 8 out of 10 of the Good Food Guide during his time at the 87 bedroom historic mansion.

The 42-year-old, who would ideally like to operate from a 60-cover premises in London said he would serve a simplified version of his signature classical French style cuisine but in a more informal setting.

"I have to try rather than not try," said Adam, who was named 'Best Chef' in this year’s Berkshire and Buckinghamshire Life Awards.

He added: "If it was that easy everyone would be doing it, I have been looking at this for the last 18 months and it has got to the stage when I can't give 100 per cent to this and 100 per cent to Adam Simmonds."

The restaurant has not appeared in the 2013 edition of the Good Food Guide, published on September 3, due to Adam informing the guide of his departure before its publication.

The future of the restaurant's Michelin star status is unknown but Adam has said it will remain open.

"It's a new start for Danesfield," he said.

"I am very grateful of support that the hotel has given me and without that I would not have got to where I am."