With over three decades of culinary experience, Chef Mark Tomeo brings his exceptional skills and passion for gastronomy to Squires Restaurant at Bedford Lodge Hotel & Spa as the new Executive Head Chef.
Early Life and Inspiration
Born in East London and raised in Tottenham, Chef Tomeo’s Italian heritage played a significant role in shaping his love for cooking. Influenced by his family’s rich culinary traditions, he developed an early interest in the culinary arts, particularly the straightforward nature of Italian cuisine that’s packed with flavour.
Culinary Education & Mentorship under Culinary Legends
Chef Tomeo’s illustrious career spans 34 years, with 26 of those years dedicated to leading kitchens as a head chef. His journey has seen him at the helm of renowned establishments, including The George Hotel of Stamford and The Blue Bell in Glinton. His extensive experience includes working under culinary legends such as Albert Roux, Adam Gray, and Bruno Loubet, which further refined his culinary vision and technique.
Signature Style
A staunch advocate for locally sourced ingredients, Chef Tomeo is committed to supporting local producers and reducing the carbon footprint of his kitchen. His approach to menu creation focuses on customer satisfaction, offering a diverse array of high-quality, seasonal dishes that cater to a wide range of tastes. “My vision for the menu at Squires is to ensure every guest finds something they love. I aim to create a diverse menu with high-quality, locally sourced produce that offers ample choices and adaptability, making it easy for anyone to say, ‘Yes, I’ll have that’.” says Chef Tomeo.
Current Role & Aspirations for Squires Restaurant
New to Suffolk, Chef Tomeo is eager to fully immerse himself in the Suffolk area and explore its abundant local produce. Known for his team-oriented approach, Chef Tomeo fosters a familial atmosphere in the kitchen, emphasising teamwork and mutual support. In his new role at Squires Restaurant, Chef Tomeo looks forward to delighting guests with his culinary creations, ensuring regular customers leave happy and eager to return. With plans to introduce a larger, seasonally changing menu, he aims to showcase the best of Suffolk’s offerings, providing a fine dining experience that celebrates the region’s unique character.
Chef Mark Tomeo’s arrival at Bedford Lodge Hotel & Spa marks an exciting new chapter for Squires Restaurant, promising an exceptional dining experience that honours tradition while embracing innovation.