JW Steakhouse in Mayfair today announces the appointment of its new Head Chef, Julian Ward.

With 21 years of experience in both London and the USA, Julian joins JW Steakhouse from the Fox & Grapes in Wimbledon; brainchild of two Michelin starred Hibiscus Chef, Claude Bosi.

Replacing Paul Hallett (who has relocated to Singapore), Julian has been involved in the openings of a number of eminent London establishments, including the Spice Market at W Hotel Leicester Square, Time & Space at The Royal Institution in Mayfair and Shed Private Members Club.

Julian says, “My passion is in seasonality and provenance. I worked in the United States for three years and therefore have a strong understanding of the American Steakhouse concept, combined with my experience in London, where I have developed and delivered new concepts and menus, I am relishing the opportunity to work with the team at JW Steakhouse.”

In his career, Julian trained under the expertise of Chef Anton Edelman, most famous for his 20 years at the Savoy as maître chef des cuisines. Now owner of Anton’s in Hertfordshire, Anton Edelmann coincidentally worked as Executive at Grosvenor House in 1980.

Julian adds, “The fact that Anton was also at Grosvenor House in his early career makes this move extra special. He is someone who I greatly admire; inspired my career and I have a lot to thank for. Even my initials, ‘JW’ suggest that the job was written in the stars for me and I will be visiting Creekstone in the US, source of our USDA beef to fully immerse myself into the JW Steakhouse concept.”

Stuart Bowery, General Manager at Grosvenor House, A JW Marriott Hotel said, “Julian brings a wealth of experience as a Head Chef. His strong leadership will inspire the team and maintain the success of our well established restaurant on Park Lane.”

For interview opportunities with Julian Ward, please contact Lorna O'Neill, Director of Public Relations, Grosvenor House, A JW Marriott Hotel. lorna.oneill@marriotthotels.com

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About Grosvenor House, A JW Marriott Hotel

Grosvenor House, A JW Marriott Hotel opened its doors to the public in May 1929 and quickly established itself as the glamorous home of the society set and wealthy Americans, attracting a fashionable crowd from Edward VIII and Mrs. Simpson to Ella Fitzgerald and Jacqueline Onassis. Fast forward to 2008 and the hotel culminated one of the most extensive renovation projects of its kind.  Thanks to a multi-million investment Grosvenor House has resumed its place amongst London’s most desirable hotels and is restored to its former glory, being awarded The Visit London Award for Large Hotel of The Year. The extensive restoration programme includes five bar and four dining options, ranging from traditional American fare in JW Steakhouse to award-winning afternoon tea in the scenic Park Room to Corrigan’s Mayfair, the signature restaurant of celebrity chef, Richard Corrigan.

For information about Grosvenor House, A JW Marriott Hotel please call +44 (0) 207 499 6363 or visit www.londongrosvenorhouse.co.uk, @Grosvenor_House and facebook.com/londongrosvenorhouse

About JW Marriott
JW Marriott is part of Marriott International’s luxury portfolio and consists of beautiful properties in gateway cities and distinctive resort locations around the world. These elegant hotels cater to today’s sophisticated, self-assured travelers, offering them the quiet luxury they seek in a warmly authentic, relaxed atmosphere lacking in pretense. JW Marriott properties artfully provide highly crafted, anticipatory experiences that are reflective of their locale so that their guests have the time to focus on what is most important to them. Currently, there are 59 JW Marriott hotels in 24 countries; by 2015 the portfolio is expected to encompass 79 properties in 28 countries. Visit us online,jwmarriott.com, @jwmarriott and facebook.com/JWMarriott