Meet new Head Chef at Maryculter House

One of Scotland’s most highly regarded chefs is now bringing his distinctive approach to the menu at Maryculter House. David’s career includes many of the country’s most prestigious hotels, Michelin-starred restaurants and a multitude of awards, including the Fine Dining Chef of the Year and Hotel Chef of the Year by the Scottish Hotel Awards and Contemporary Chef of the Year by the Scottish Food Awards.

‘My career was a happy accident. A school work placement at Stobo Castle, turned into an evening job, then a full time career. I really enjoyed the creativity and buzz of working in kitchens. As I have

progressed over the years, I now enjoy being able to pass on those skills and techniques to others.

‘Maryculter is a special place, so it is a real opportunity to highlight the importance of classically cooked food done well. Aberdeenshire has some of the best produce in the country.

‘I’d describe my style as being classical with a contemporary twist. My career has been based on fine dining, so Maryculter House has given me more versatility and scope to focus on other elements of dining, from fine dining and gastronomic afternoon teas and wedding menus.

‘When we’re creating a new dish for the menu, we look at what produce is available locally, rather than following the latest fad. Seasonality and quality are really important to me as is listening to feedback and what people enjoy. At the moment, our most popular winter dish is our Highland venison with braised red cabbage, pickled salsify, pan fried polenta, chestnut purée and a bramble jus. ‘I’d say that Jason Atherton’s Pollen Street Social is my all-time favourite restaurant and style of food, though the late Andrew Fairlie at Gleneagles was my mentor and continues to be a huge inspiration.

‘Like most chefs, I have a guilty food pleasure. If I’ve had a drink or two, I like to eat toasted focaccia, with black pudding, fried duck egg, a potato scone, streaky bacon and HP sauce. Messy and difficult to eat, but delicious!

‘Away from the kitchen, I like to spend time with my two young boys. We do a lot of hill walking with our dog or swimming which helps keep my head in balance. I've always enjoyed photography and art as a hobby and, naturally, I enjoy eating out and picking up the odd cook book!’

South Deeside Road Maryculter, Aberdeen, AB12 5GB United Kingdom Tel: 01224 732124