i. Biography
The Wye Valley supplies the working vocabulary at The Whitebrook, United Kingdom: local produce, freshly foraged herbs and plants, and the short timing of micro-seasonality in the surrounding countryside. In Chris Harrod’s hands as chef/owner, Creative British cuisine is built from that larder, with original dishes used to carry the valley onto the plate. “It was something I’d always wanted to do since the age of seven. I don’t know why because there’s no family history in cheffing.” Chris has said.
Coming Up
Formal training at Birmingham College of Food sits behind a kitchen record shaped in established British dining rooms. Chris Harrod built his craft as chef at The Lanesborough, chef at Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons, chef at L’Ortolan, and chef at The Grove Hotel, before becoming chef patron of the restaurant in 2013.
The Work Today
Place-led cooking there starts with foraging, local produce and micro-seasonality as working constraints, not garnish. Creative British cuisine is the frame. With Chris Harrod, the kitchen uses locally sourced food flavoured with freshly foraged herbs and plants, building dishes from the materials of the valley around it. A dish that scored highest on Great British Menu 2018 became a best seller at the restaurant, showing how a competition plate can return to service as part of regular demand.
Signature
Signature dishes include ‘Tea and Cake’ dessert and ‘Everything but the Squeal’.
Standing
Chris Harrod has received Michelin Guide: Michelin star for The Whitebrook. Recognition for The Whitebrook places the work in both sustainability and restaurant-performance registers. Chris's honors include Michelin Green Star for The Whitebrook (2024), Michelin star for The Whitebrook, Top 50 UK Restaurants for The Whitebrook (2020), Great British Menu winner; served NHS guests (2018), Inspectors’ Choice (Restaurant with Rooms) for The Whitebrook (2017), and Top 50 UK Restaurants for The Whitebrook (2017).
Profile updated July 2026
FAQ
Asked of Chris
What is Chris Harrod's current position?
Chris Harrod is chef at The Whitebrook — Creative British.
Where did Chris Harrod train or study?
Chris Harrod trained at Birmingham College of Food.
What recognition has Chris Harrod received?
Michelin Green Star for The Whitebrook (2024).
