Matthew Tomkinson is the new head chef at Stanwell House

Matthew Tomkinson, the new head chef at Stanwell House in Lymington, appears in our meet the chef column. 

What first inspired you to become a chef?

"Seeing my parents entertaining as a kid, welcoming friends and family into our home for a special evening together."

What was the first meal you cooked for someone else?

"I have been with my partner Alex since we were 16 so whilst I don’t remember - it was probably for her!

Tell us a bit about your career so far…?

"A placement year at university introduced me to life as a chef. I worked all around the county and London before settling in Hampshire."

What is your proudest career moment to date?

"Winning the Roux Scholarship, it literally changed my life."

What is your signature dish?

"I have dishes I’m very proud of and guests enjoy but they change over time. We will be adding a lovely chocolate and blueberry Mille Feuille that was a real labour of love."

What is your favourite dish currently on your menu?

"Pan Roasted Turbot Surf Clam Velouté, Squid Ink Linguine, Samphire."

Where is your favourite place to eat in Hampshire?

"Lime Wood, I think Luke Holder is a brilliant chef."

What is your favourite meal to cook at home?

"Anything we all eat together, often a roast on a Sunday."

What do you like to drink with dinner?

"Midweek Pepsi Max, weekend Chardonnay."

What is your culinary guilty pleasure?

"White chocolate Magnums."

Which key ingredient is always in your fridge?

"Salted butter."

What is your favourite Hampshire ingredient?

"Tunworth cheese in its prime is world class."

Which chef do you most admire?

"Michel Roux changed restaurants in this country and left us an amazing legacy."

What’s your career ambition?

"Enjoyment: I have been lucky enough to hit a few big ‘milestones’ and have realised that continuing to love what you do is infectious."

Having held a Michelin star at The Goose in Oxfordshire, Matthew relaunched The Hambrough's restaurant on the Isle of Wight and was Chef Patron at Betony at The Kings Head, Whiteparish.

He is best known for his ten-year stint at the Montagu Arms Hotel in Beaulieu, during which the restaurant won a Michelin star, alongside three AA rosettes.