Laghi’s neighbourhood restaurant, nestled in the heart of Edgbaston is delighted to announce the exciting appointment of Executive Chef Stuart Deeley. With his innovative approach to flavour, commitment to seasonal ingredients, and expertise in cooking over smoke and is set to lead Laghi’s into a new era.
Current Chef Director of Smoke- Hampton Manor and former head chef at The Wilderness, Stu emerged into the public eye upon winning the prestigious BBC Two’s Masterchef The Professionals in 2019 in which Marcus Wareing described his food as “daring”, and Monica Galetti called Deeley “the complete package”. His victory showcased not only his culinary skills but also his ability to create exceptional dishes under pressure. His background includes training at respected culinary institutions such as Halesowen College and working with renowned chefs, contributing to his wellrounded expertise in the kitchen.
After working behind the scenes with the newly appointed Head Chef Patrick Hukins (previous Sous Chef of Smoke – Hampton Manor) to the kitchen team, brings a wealth of experience and a fresh perspective to Laghi’s. The new focus on flavour-driven small plates and showcasing seasonal ingredients align perfectly with the restaurant’s continued values and commitment for a personalised casual dining experience.
The launch of ‘Stu Deeley at Laghi’s’ will introduce a complete new menu featuring dishes such as Barbecued Isle of Man Queenie scallops, Espelette sauce and smoked roe followed by a Fried Pannetone Bread and Butter Pudding – already known to be big hits of the first menu. Guests can anticipate an a frequently changing menu of dishes that reflect Stu’s passion including his signature touch of cooking over smoke.
In addition to the revamped menu, Laghi’s is proud to present an entirely new wine list featuring wines sourced from Birmingham-based Wine Freedom. This partnership introduces patrons to smaller production vineyards, showcasing natural, organic, and bio-dynamic wines from winemakers dedicated to working in harmony with nature. The wine selection promises to elevate the overall dining experience, offering a perfect complement to the new dishes.
Working alongside the new drinks list, Laghi’s also welcomes a collaboration with the team at Passing Fancies (recently awarded number 3 in the Top 50 Cocktail Bars) who will become a prominent feature on the frequently changing cocktail list. The partnership brings an exciting blend of creativity and mixology expertise of immense technique and hours of hard-work that Matt, Eve and the Passing Team put into perfecting each drink making a perfect aperitif or post-dinner drink. “I’ve known and admired Luca and what he’s done with Laghis for a while and our paths have finally crossed.” “It’s an exciting new venture and i’m looking forward to working together.” – Stu Deeley, Executive Chef of Stu Deeley at Laghi’s and Chef Director of Hampton Manor and Smoke.
“Working along side Stu and Paddy has already brought a wave of new life into the kitchen and restaurant” said Charlotte Carter, General Manager at Laghi’s. “Focussing on getting the drink list to where we wanted it to be, has been just as important to us.” “Sam, (Sam Olive – Owner of Wine Freedom) Matt and Eve (Matt Arnold & Eve Green – Owners of Passing Fancies Bar) have paid key roles in helping us navigate the new direction of Laghi’s which has ultimately relit our passion front of house.”
Laghi’s invites the Birmingham community to join in celebrating their new beginnings and the launch of Stu Deeley at Laghi’s with their new menu launching from March 12th.