THE NEW chef at a quirky North East restaurant with rooms has said he’s here to “sty” – after working in a variety of top eateries across the region and beyond.

Dave Gill, who worked in London and at an exclusive Swiss chalet, has cooked for everyone from royalty to celebrities including JK Rowling and the Beckhams.

And now the Sunderland-born chef has taken up the role as head chef at the award-winning Impeccable Pig at Sedgefield.

The venue, which is renowned for its stylish and luxurious rooms as well as its bistro style restaurant and pub, has become a huge hit since it was opened by Ramside Estates last autumn.

And now Dave, who also ran Juniper’s Kitchen deli in Sunderland for a number of years, is looking forward to showcasing his skills to a new audience.

He has already revamped the menu which has been relaunched this week, to showcase his ethos of “ quality food, simply cooked.”

New dishes include suckling pig and belly pork, duck confit and fillet of stone bass, with a range of vegan and vegetarian options such as harissa and orange spiced cauliflower “steak.”

“It’s a really busy restaurant but that’s what makes it so exciting,” said Dave.

“It was also really appealing to be part of a large operation like Ramside Estates and to be involved somewhere I could really get my teeth into and help build on what is already a highly successful business.”

Since it opened its doors The Impeccable Pig has become a huge hit, attracting local people and visitors from further afield who also stay in one of the 10 individually styled bedrooms, some of which have their own hot tubs.

General Manager Pierre Bertolotti said he was delighted that Dave had joined the team.

“We’ve been overwhelmed with the response to the restaurant since we opened,” he said.

“Dave has a great deal of experience and is a perfect fit for the type of food we’re offering, brasserie-style dishes using the very best ingredients.”

For more information or to book, visit the website: www.impeccablepig.co.uk