Mills Hill Developments appoints new executive head chef
The promotion comes as Shaw confirmed plans for further growth with the business ‘ready to expand subject to finding the right site’
Mills Hill Developments, owner of El Gato Negro, Canto and Habas, has announced the appointment of Carlos Gomes as executive head chef.
Gomes joined the business in 2017, working alongside chef patron and creative director Simon Shaw to open Mediterranean tapas restaurant, Canto, in Ancoats, Manchester.
Over the last six years the Portuguese native and former head chef of Michelin-starred Barrafina has played a pivotal role in the continued success of the group.
He also supported the opening of El Gato Negro in Liverpool and Leeds in 2019, followed by the launch of modern Middle Eastern restaurant and bar Habas in Manchester in 2021.
The new role will see Gomes work closely with Shaw and the head chefs at all five restaurants with a focus on menu development and nurturing young talent.
Gomes said: “Growing up in Portugal family is important to me. Over the last six years Simon and the team at Mills Hill Developments have become an extension of this, investing not only in my development but that of the wider team, whom it is a pleasure to lead. I look forward to continuing my journey with the business as it looks to future growth.”
Shaw added: “To watch Carlos at work in the kitchen is something else. He has a quiet confidence about him, an attention to detail and pride that’s hard to find. It’s been an absolute privilege to work alongside him these last six years and I look forward to many more. This promotion is thoroughly deserved, I couldn’t ask for a better right-hand man.”
The promotion comes as Shaw confirmed plans for further growth with the business “ready to expand subject to finding the right site”.