A CHEF with experience of cooking for the Queen has joined a Knutsford gastropub.

The Rose and Crown Chophouse, on King Street, has announced the arrival of an exciting new kitchen team, led by head chef, Simon Coles.

Coles, 39, brings a roll call of culinary and royal credentials to the King Street pub restaurant, having previously cooked for the Queen at Blenheim Palace and the Sandringham Estate.

In addition he has cooked for guests at the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge’s Royal Wedding in 2011.

Following successful stints at Newcastle’s former Michelin-starred restaurant 21 Queen Street, the Malmaison in Manchester, and a variety of New York City establishments, he has chosen to settle in Cheshire with his wife and baby.

With experience a little closer to home, James Riley also joins the Rose and Crown kitchen, having worked in venues such as The Belle Epoque, The Frozen Mop, The Roebuck, Hartford Hall, and The Coachman.

Zsolt Novak completes the team, having worked as a sous chef in his native Hungary, as well as in restaurants throughout Australia (Sydney) and Greece (Crete).

“We are very excited to welcome Simon, James and Zsolt to the Rose and Crown," said proprietor and managing director Matthew Mooney.

“Each member of our new kitchen team brings a vital component to the table, and we believe this mix of international experience, local knowledge, and creative flair is evident in our delicious new menu."

The new menu launched on Monday, February 13, and diners are being offered a special 25 per cent off the a la carte chophouse menu.

The menu will feature an exciting selection of mouthwatering, homemade dishes using the finest, high quality, locally-sourced ingredients.

The offer applies to the a la carte menu only, between 12pm and 10pm Monday to Saturday, and 12pm and 8pm on Sunday.

For more information, log on to roseandcrownknutsford.net

All pictures: WA16 PR