About Fernando Stovell

Global Service as Executive Chef: Broadening His Impact

Fernando has held the esteemed position of being the exclusive Executive European Chef for a prominent head of state from the Middle East. During their residences in Europe, Africa, and the Middle East, he has meticulously overseen and managed all catering services with utmost dedication and expertise.

Functions were attended by illustrious guests including the British royal family, former British prime ministers, heads of state & notable individuals of various European countries, graced these events. Some of the distinguished attendees included:

Among them were Late HR Queen Elizabeth II, Late Prince Philip (Duke of Edinburgh), HR King Charles III, HRH Prince William (Prince of Wales), Prince Harry (Duke of Sussex), HRH Prince Edward (Duke of Edinburgh), HRH Sophie Helen Rhys-Jones (Duchess of Edinburgh), former Prime Ministers Sir John Mayor, Sir Anthony Blair, James Gordon Brown, and David Cameron. Additionally, former Deputy Prime Minister John Prescott, former Prime Minister Elizabeth Truss, former Foreign Minister William Hague, Member of House of Lords Michael Howard, Late Sultan Qaboos bin Said Al Said of Oman, Deputy Prime Minister Sayyid Fahd bin Mahmoud Al Said of Oman, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani of Qatar, former Emir Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah of Kuwait, King Abdullah II of Jordan, former President Jacques Chirac of France, former President Nicolas Sarkozy of France, former President Hosni Mubarak of Egypt, former Chancellor Gerhard Schröder of Germany, Former President Lic. Carlos Salinas do Gortari of México, were in attendance. Air Marshal Sir Erick Peter Bennet KBE, CB, CVO, Principal adviser to Sultan Qaboos Bin Said Al Said, and Brigadier James Timothy Landon of Canada , KCVO , Businessman & Political Consultant Late Dr Zawawi Omar Bin Abd al-Munin of Oman / Pakistan were also among the distinguished guests.

The Beginning

Chef Stovell enrolled at Westminster College (now known as Westminster Kingsway College) in Central London, the United Kingdom’s leading and oldest professional culinary and hospitality school, founded by the legendary chefs Auguste Escoffier and Iwan Kriens. There, he obtained the Professional Chef Diploma under the guidance of renowned chefs such as Gary Hunter and Bobby Salt, among others, during an intensive three-year programme.

Following this, Chef Stovell pursued a master’s qualification in Pâtisserie and Confectionery at Brooklands College in Surrey, studying under world champion chocolatier, Chef Allan Whatley.

Whilst continuing his studies, Fernando commenced his professional journey with a stagiaire placement at a legendary three Michelin-starred restaurant in Paris & Lyon. The time spent in Paris & Lyon afforded him invaluable experience in all facets of high-end French cuisine. Upon returning to London, he further refined his skills under the tutelage of Chef Eric Chavot at the two Michelin-starred restaurant at The Capital Hotel.

A Chef on the World Stage

In 2002, Fernando assumed his first head chef role at The Wellington Club in Knightsbridge. During his tenure, he had the honour of catering to distinguished guests, including Leonardo Di Caprio, David & Victoria Beckham, Steven Spielberg, Oliver Stone, Guy Ritchie, Simon Cowell, Michael Schumacher, David Coulthard, Mick Jagger, Bono, Dave Howell, Adam Clayton, Larry Mullen Jr, Roger Taylor, Mickey Rourke, Damien Hurst, Billy Zane, David Bowie, Sir Roger Moore, Chef Jamie Oliver, Sir Tom Jones, Mick Hucknall, Kate Moss, Paul Oakenfold, Pete Tong, Stephen Webster, Natasha Benigfield, Carlos Ancelotti, George Best, Callum Best, Sven Goran Erickson, Lennox Lewis, Michael Vaughan, Andrew Flintoff, Boris Becker, Pat Cash, among other VIP customers, all under the ownership and direction of Jake Panayoutu and Phil Harding, renowned proprietors of award-winning members' clubs.

Serving Stars and Dignitaries in London

Additionally, he had the opportunity to prepare meals for an array of clients, spanninrant at The Cuckoo Club – an exclusive private members club in London which went on to be voted one of Tatler magazine’s best restaurants in the UK. Guests here included Prince William, Prince Harry, Princess Beatrice, Former President Lic. Carlos Salinas de Gortari, Roman Abramovich, Noel and Liam Gallagher, Axl Rose, Orlando Bloom, Mick Jagger, Chef Gordon Ramsey, Green Day band, Christina Aguilera, Bryan Ferry, JudeLaw, Bryan Adams, Eva Longoria, Nicole Scherzinger, Paris Hilton, Fernando’s close friend Paul Young and family & Jonas Myrin. all under the ownership and direction of Jamie Lorenz renowned proprietor of award-winning members' clubs.

Fernando served as a private chef for the Mexican Ambassador to the UK, catering to a diverse range of events including VIP functions and intimate private mealsAdditionally, he had the opportunity to prepare meals for an array of clients, spanning from former Egyptian President Mubarak & family, Former MD of Barclays Bank and family, Tennis player Greg Rusedski and family

Dreams come true: Stovell's Chobham restaurant

Fernando fulfilled his lifelong dream by opening his own restaurant, Stovell’s, in the picturesque village of Chobham, Surrey. The restaurant, which included a bar and private dining room, thrived during its time, receiving increasing acclaim. Stovell’s garnered glowing reviews from esteemed journalists such as Jay Rayner in The Observer and Tom Parker Bowles in the Mail on Sunday. It also earned several prestigious accolades before its closure.

The 4 Rosettes

Stovell’s, led by renowned chef Fernando Stovell, shines as the Surrey county’s top restaurant and chef of the year, as recognised by Surrey Magazine and restaurant awards. It has been granted three AA Rosettes by the esteemed AA guide and has secured a highly sought-after place in The Michelin guide, renowned for being worth a special visit.

Recognitions

Building on the accomplishments of Stovell’s, Fernando’s sets itself apart as one of just 35 restaurants nationwide to hold four AA Rosettes. It has been recognised as the Chef of the Year, Restaurant of the Year, and ranked as the 16th Best Restaurant in the Country by Square Meal. Fernando’s extraordinary talent and determined dedication were acknowledged in 2015 when he was honoured with the esteemed Chef of the Year award by the Good Food Guide Award. Among his notable clients at the restaurant are Peter Cech and family, Michael Keaton, Benedict Cumberbatch, Sir Andrew Lloyd Webber, and other esteemed individuals.

Stovell's Gin / Stagiaries

Development of Stovell's Gin and stagiaire placements across various distinguished restaurants throughout Europe.

Fernando and his co-creator and Bar manager, Geyan Surendran, introduced the exquisite Stovell’s Wildcrafted Gin distilled in house. This exceptional gin is meticulously handcrafted, utilising carefully selected botanicals that mirror the ingredients found in the restaurant’s kitchen. This creation showcases the shared passion of Fernando and Geyan for the art of mixology. With an impressive 97% of the botanicals sourced from Britain, it has gained recognition as the fourth best international gin. Moreover, Fernando has made frequent appearances as a guest chef on the live BBC1 show, Saturday Kitchen, alongside Chef James Martin and Chef Matt Telbutt, starting from 2008 up to 2017. Additionally, he has served as a guest teacher for the Saturday Kitchen Experience, imparting his knowledge to enthusiasts of the popular show in the UK. Fernando embarked on a journey, venturing to renowned restaurants acclaimed by The World’s 50 Best Restaurants in Spain, Austria, France, and Scandinavian countries. During his travels, he engaged in stagiaire positions, refining his skills and gaining invaluable experience in these esteemed culinary establishments.

Mexico's TV appereances

While in Mexico, Fernando Stovell assumed the position of a judge on Masterchef Mexico for four consecutive years, from 2019 to 2022. He also made noteworthy guest appearances on various Mexican television shows and participated in interviews with renowned journalists and broadcasters from Univision, Televisa, Imagen TV, and Tv Azteca.. Additionally, he provided private catering services to various high-profile clients, and served as an ambassador for esteemed brands such as Vita cocina, Licor 43 Horchata, Monogram, Zegna, Casa Rionda, and Feb 31st glassware.

Furthermore, he has been appointed as the Chef Specialist for the TV show ‘El Hotel VIP,’ which was filmed in Argentina in early 2023. The show broadcasted on Televisa and Univision starting from September 2023, reaching audiences in the USA, Mexico, and parts of South America. The show consists of 45 episodes.

New Books by Fernando Stovell

Demonstrating his multifaceted talent and deep understanding of gastronomy, Chef Fernando Stovell has also made significant contributions to the literary world with the release of two insightful books. In "FROM SEED TO TABLE," Stovell explores his profound connection to ingredients, tracing their journey from the earth to the plate and highlighting his commitment to seasonality and fresh, local produce. His second book, "PLAIN - VANILLA," delves into the often-underestimated versatility of this classic flavour, showcasing its potential in both simple and sophisticated dishes, and reflecting his ability to find beauty in culinary fundamentals. These publications offer a valuable insight into the culinary philosophy and expertise of Chef Stovell, extending his passion for food beyond the restaurant kitchen.

Coming Soon

Prepare for the arrival of "Stovell's Mexico," a restaurant where the primal allure of wood-fired cooking meets the rich bounty of local Mexican produce. This innovative concept will celebrate the authenticity of regional ingredients, transformed by the unique character imparted by the flames. With a strong commitment to sustainability at its core, "Stovell's Mexico" offers a forward-thinking approach to dining, where flavour and responsibility go hand in hand.