The American-born general manager of the D&D London-owned Launceston Place on a life spent working in hospitality, and changing the perception that working in restaurants is not a 'real career'.
Recently promoted to chef-patron, the D&D London-employed chef has ditched the gimmicks at his Kensington restaurant and is pushing hard for a Michelin star.
Raphael Francois has been appointed chef patron at Michelin-starred Launceston Place in South Kensington following former head chef Tim Allen's departure last year.
Tim Allen, head chef at Launceston Place, has been on our TV screens competing in Great British Menu this week. He discusses the show and his next career move as executive chef of The Wild Rabbit in Kingham.
Alan Stewart’s passion for cooking started with a part-time job at Hammersmith gastropub The Anglesea Arms. He worked in support roles at Chez Bruce and Launceston Place in London before taking up his current position of head chef at Manson in London.
US-born Mickey Narea traded in a high-flying career in finance for one of wine, and with just six months restaurant experience, migrated to London to begin his first sommelier position at Launceston Place