Culinary Prodigy Adam Takes the Helm as Executive Head Chef

AC Hotel by Marriott Belfast has announced the promotion of Adam Jones, a remarkable 24-year-old culinary sensation, to the prestigious role of 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 also to the invaluable guidance of his previous head chefs and also of course renowned chef Jean-Christophe Novelli.  The 5 out of 5 AA Rosette and multi–Michelin Star award-winning chef has won the AA Chef’s Chef of the Year accolade, and has also been dubbed "The Nation's Favourite French Chef”.  

Adam's journey with the AC Hotel by Marriott family commenced in June 2019, when he joined as a Commis Chef. Fuelled by the inspiration of his father, a seasoned chef, Adam's passion for the culinary arts led him to the AC Hotel by Marriott Belfast.   He says: “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 was completing a Level 3 Catering Apprenticeship NI with SERC when he was approached to join the team as a commis chef at AC Hotel by Marriott Belfast, and under the expert mentorship of Jean-Christophe Novelli, Adam's growth has been exceptional.   He advanced to the role of Junior Sous Chef in November 2021 and continued his ascent to Sous Chef in September 2022. Today, he proudly assumes the esteemed position of Executive Head Chef.  

Reflecting on his journey, Adam expresses profound gratitude for the guidance of his mentor, Jean-Christophe Novelli. He says: “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.”  

Beyond his kitchen duties, Adam has a passion for culinary exploration, constantly seeking inspiration to stay at the forefront of culinary trends through television shows and travel.  

Announcing Adam's appointment, Jean-Christophe Novelli said: “The hospitality industry has faced incredibly difficult headwinds over the last few years, but our business is committed to creating incredible guest experiences in line with consumer trends. Operational excellence is crucial when it comes to attracting and retaining guest loyalty across our properties, so ensuring areas such as food and beverage remain innovative is vital. In light of this, 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."  

Above: Adam Jones, Executive Head Chef, Novelli at City Quays which is part of AC Hotel by Marriott Belfast, with Jean-Christophe Novelli.

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