Hotel Gotham Newcastle appoints executive head chef

Hotel Gotham Newcastle has named acclaimed North East chef David Kennedy as executive head chef ahead of its October opening.

With more than 40 years in the industry, David has led some of the region’s most celebrated restaurants, including Brasserie Black Door and he original David Kennedy at Vallum Farm. 

He has also mentored aspiring chefs through Newcastle College’s Chef’s Academy and judged at the North East Culinary and Trade Awards for over two decades.

At the hotel’s flagship restaurant SIREN, David will showcase seasonal menus featuring local produce, with ambitions to earn a Green Michelin Star for sustainability.

David said: “My vision is to craft an experience where flavour meets emotion and every dish reflects the rich landscape, heritage and spirit of the North East. 

“SIREN will celebrate our region’s incredible producers while offering something fresh, elegant and joyfully unexpected. 

“I’m also extremely passionate about reducing waste in food production by working with suppliers to ensure that we use up produce that would otherwise end up as waste, showcasing the best of what’s available. 

“I’ll be working closely with rising local chefs to create a kitchen that inspires behind the scenes as much as it does when the food hits the plate. 

“Hotel Gotham Newcastle gives us a fantastic opportunity to reset the benchmark and I’m thrilled to be a part of it.”

The five-star venue, set within the transformed 1920s fire station on Pilgrim Street, will open with 57 bedrooms, Club Brass, and the SIREN and FIRE restaurant and bar, with a second phase in the adjoining police station to follow in 2026.

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