Culinary prodigy Adam takes the helm at AC Marriot’s Novelli’s restaurant
AC Hotel by Marriott Belfast has unveiled 24-year-old culinary prodigy Adam Jones, as the new Executive Head Chef at its restaurant, Novelli’s.
Adam’s rapid rise from Commis Chef in June 2019 to his current position is a testament to his exceptional talent, drive and ambition and the invaluable guidance of his previous head chefs and renowned chef Jean-Christophe Novelli, the 5 out of 5 AA Rosette and multi–Michelin Star award-winning chef who was named AA Chef’s Chef of the Year and has also been dubbed “The Nation’s Favourite French Chef”.
Adam’s journey within the AC Hotel by Marriott began in June 2019, when he joined as a Commis Chef, inspired in no small part by his father.
He explained: “My dad is a chef and through watching him, with his knife skills and his enjoyment of cooking, I became interested in cooking myself. When I was in my teens, I started to shadow him in his restaurant at Tandragee Golf Club, learning the basics. I was certain that this was a path I wanted to pursue in my career.”
Adam studied at SERC, during which he was approached to join the AC Hotel team as a commis chef before advancing to the role of Junior Sous Chef in November 2021 and to Sous Chef in September 2022 before his latest achievement.
Reflecting on his journey, Adam told of his gratitude for the guidance of Jean-Christophe Novelli, saying: “He has been a mentor and a friend, always there to give me advice. As a chef, I’m always learning, I know that Jean-Christophe has a lot he can still teach me.”
Adam’s culinary vision promises to enhance and inspire future menus within Novelli’s, just as it gears up for the popular festive season. He adds: “I’m looking forward to putting my stamp on the menu as the new executive head chef and really working with the best seasonal produce all year round. Fresh, seasonal foods will take centre stage, infused with Chef Jean-Christophe Novelli’s modern Mediterranean twist while keeping the beloved classics intact.”
Speaking about the promotion, Jean-Christophe Novelli added: “I am thrilled to announce the promotion of Adam Jones to the esteemed position of Executive Head Chef. This decision signifies not only his remarkable culinary prowess but also our commitment to pushing the boundaries of excellence in gastronomy.”
