New Jewel in The Crown at Whitebrook

LEADING Welsh restaurant The Crown at Whitebrook has appointed internationally acclaimed restaurateur David Hennigan as its new general manager.

Mr Hennigan, who has achieved coveted Michelin star and Bib Gourmand Michelin recognition during his multi award-winning career, starts at the Crown later this month.

The Michelin star Crown’s current general manager Michael Obray is leaving to take up a new position as general manager at an hotel in Gloucestershire with Von Essen hotels.

The Crown at Whitebrook, situated in the Wye Valley near Tintern, was one of Wales’ first restaurants with individual rooms.

It achieved its first Michelin star in 2007, and is one of just two restaurants in Wales to hold the sought-after award.

Mr Hennigan has worked as general manager at leading restaurants including the Pheasant Inn, Cambridgeshire and the Michelin star Hunstrete House Hotel, Bath.

Most recently, Mr Hennigan and highly-regarded chef Clive Dixon owned and managed pub-restaurant group Snooty Inns.

He said: “I have heard a great deal about the Crown and, in particular, the heights of excellence head chef James Sommerin and his team have achieved in recent years culminating in the Michelin star in 2007.

“I was excited at the challenging prospect of becoming general manager and jumped at the chance when offered the position.

“The Crown has already achieved great things and I believe it has the potential to go even further.

“I relish the prospect of playing a pivotal role in the future of the Crown.”

The Crown at Whitebrook director, Jonathan Davies, added: “His experience working front of house at Michelin star and Bib Gourmand-Michelin Guide restaurants and hotels stands him in very good stead for the exciting times that lie ahead at the Crown.

“We wish Michael every success in his new appointment.”