Credit: Haydon Perrior
Iconic Notting Hill’s Restaurant and Bar Unveils New Chef and Menu for Milestone 10th Year
Casa Cruz, one of Notting Hill’s most celebrated dining destinations, announces the appointment of Jacob Rowley as Head Chef, marking an exciting new chapter for the renowned restaurant as it approaches its tenth anniversary.
Rowley joins Casa Cruz after a celebrated tenure at Hampshire’s Oakley Hall, where he received multiple “Restaurant of the Year” awards.
His career also includes experience in two Michelin-starred restaurants, five-star Mayfair hotels, and a period in Tasmania, where he worked with pristine, untouched produce.
Credit: Haydon Perrior
His appointment coincides with the restaurant’s tenth year anniversary, marking the milestone with an innovative new menu that showcases his distinctive approach to modern European cuisine while honouring Casa Cruz’s reputation for sophisticated dining.
“Chef Rowley’s commitment to sustainable sourcing and his creative vision aligns perfectly with Casa Cruz’s evolution during this milestone time,” says Yago Crego, Executive Head Chef of Casa Cruz’s parent company. “His dedication to building meaningful relationships with local producers and his innovative approach to dining will bring a new flair to the restaurant while maintaining the warmth and elegance our guests have come to expect.”
At the heart of Rowley’s approach lies a deep commitment to sustainable, seasonal sourcing. He believes in celebrating produce at its peak rather than year-round availability, ensuring a menu that evolves with each micro-season and reflects the best the British Isles have to offer.
Credit: Haydon Perrior
His menu highlights partnerships with suppliers such as The Ethical Butcher (B Corp-certified meats), Smith and Brock (premium fruits and vegetables), and day-boat fish providers from Cornwall, Brixton, and Scotland.
The new menu reflects this ethos while introducing several signature dishes that demonstrate Rowley’s creative flair.
Highlights include hand-picked day boat crab with brown crab brioche French toast, vadouvan spiced lamb belly with pomegranate and mint, and innovative vegetarian offerings such as beer molasses glazed salt-baked celeriac.
Credit: Haydon Perrior
Rowley, who trained in French culinary traditions but values breaking traditional rules for creativity, draws inspiration from diverse cultures and flavours to create dishes that evoke memories and excite the palate.
Casa Cruz, celebrated for its copper-clad bar, stunning rooftop terrace, and elegant two-floor dining space, continues to be one of West London’s most sought-after dining destinations.
Under Rowley’s new leadership, the restaurant reinforces its commitment to sustainable and innovative cuisine while maintaining its position as Notting Hill’s top destination for fine dining.
