The Stafford: Devon chef Michael Caines to make London debut with restaurant at top hotel

One of the West Country’s most lauded chefs is to make his London debut this year with a new concept at the Stafford Hotel in St James’s.

Michael Caines, the chef-owner of the Michelin-starred Lympstone Manor in Devon, has joined the Stafford Collection as its new culinary strategist.

The role means Caines will oversee a new restaurant at the Stafford, which will open under a new name in the autumn and is to replace the Game Bird, in situ for the past ten years.

Neither the chef nor the hotel team have shared details about the new concept, though it is set to be more upscale than it is now and reflect Caines’ traditional French style at Lympstone.

A spokesperson for the Stafford promised a “more refined approach” and mentioned more use of “seasonal British ingredients”.

In turn, Caines’ Devon hotel, restaurant and vineyard will sit alongside the London fixture, operating as a sister venue.

Caines told Restaurant magazine: “This partnership opens the door for our guests to enjoy a journey from coast to city.

“I’m particularly excited about the new direction for the restaurant at the Stafford, which will embrace a refreshed concept inspired by London’s dynamic culinary scene.”

John McLean, managing director at the Stafford Collection, said the partnership “marks an exciting chapter” for the hotel and added: “I look forward to future collaborations built on shared expertise.”

Caines’ unnamed new restaurant is expected to open in the autumn. 16-18 St James's Place, SW1A 1NJ, thestaffordlondon.com