Adam Handling
About
Adam Peter Ritchie Handling MBE, born in Dundee, Scotland on September 17, 1988, is a culinary virtuoso and restaurateur hailing from the United Kingdom. Through his culinary ventures, Handling has left an indelible mark on the gastronomic landscape, captivating palates and garnering accolades aplenty.
Culinary Odyssey Begins
Handling’s culinary voyage commenced at a tender age of 16, embarking on his apprenticeship at the esteemed Gleneagles Hotel in Scotland. His insatiable passion for the culinary arts led him to traverse to London, where he honed his skills before assuming the role of sous chef at the Malmaison hotel in Newcastle. Eager for new challenges, Handling journeyed back to Scotland, assuming the mantle of head chef at the Fairmont St Andrews under the Fairmont Group’s banner.
Rising Star in London
In 2013, Handling’s culinary prowess earned him the prestigious position of head chef at St. Ermin’s Hotel in the heart of London, nestled near St James’s Park. It was during this time that Handling’s talents caught the eye of the culinary world, propelling him into the limelight as a finalist in series 6 of Masterchef: The Professionals.
The Birth of Culinary Empires
2014 marked a milestone in Handling’s career as he unveiled Restaurant Adam Handling at Caxton, a culinary gem that swiftly garnered acclaim, clinching a coveted three rosettes award from the AA. The subsequent year bestowed upon Handling the title of Best Newcomer UK Restaurant by Food and Travel Magazine, further solidifying his status as a culinary luminary.
From Page to Plate
Handling’s culinary journey transcended the confines of the kitchen, extending into the realm of literature with the publication of his inaugural cookbook, “Smile or Get Out of the Kitchen,” in October 2014. With a foreword penned by Masterchef judge Monica Galetti, the cookbook served as a testament to Handling’s culinary prowess and innovative flair.
A Gastronomic Revolution
In June 2016, Handling embarked on a new chapter in his culinary odyssey, unveiling his inaugural independent venture, The Frog, nestled in the vibrant enclave of Spitalfields, London. Simultaneously, Handling showcased his culinary prowess on a national stage, captivating audiences in series 11 of Great British Menu.
Flagship Ventures
September 2017 witnessed the dawn of a new era as Handling unveiled his flagship restaurant, Frog by Adam Handling, in the bustling district of Covent Garden, alongside the debut of his first standalone bar, Eve Bar, signaling a triumph in his culinary evolution.
A Global Culinary Ambassador
Handling’s culinary mastery transcended borders as he was selected to curate a gastronomic feast for the G7 world leaders during the G7 Summit 2021 in Cornwall, embodying his commitment to sustainability by sourcing ingredients locally.
Expanding Horizons
In 2021, Handling extended his culinary footprint beyond the bustling streets of London, venturing into Old Windsor with the opening of The Loch & the Tyne, a charming pub and eatery. Subsequently, Handling brought his culinary expertise to the picturesque coastal town of St. Ives, Cornwall, with the launch of Ugly Butterfly restaurant and bar, captivating seaside diners with his innovative fare.
Literary and Televisual Ventures
Handling’s culinary narrative continued to unfold through the literary realm with the publication of a trio of books in 2023, comprising “Frog by Adam Handling,” “Why Waste?,” and “Perfect, Three Cherries.” Additionally, Handling graced television screens as a guest judge on the segment Quickfire Challenge on Top Chef: World All Stars, showcasing his discerning palate and culinary acumen.
Honours and Accolades
Handling’s unparalleled contributions to the culinary world garnered widespread recognition, culminating in his appointment as a Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) in the 2024 New Year Honours for his exemplary services to hospitality and international trade. His accolades include the prestigious Acorn Award 2013, British Culinary Federation’s “Chef of the Year 2014,” and the coveted title of Scottish Chef of the Year 2015, among others, underscoring his enduring impact on the culinary sphere.
Culinary Legacy
Adam Handling’s culinary legacy is not only defined by his gastronomic creations but also by his unwavering commitment to sustainability and innovation. Through his culinary empire, Handling continues to redefine the boundaries of gastronomy, leaving an indelible imprint on the culinary landscape for generations to come.