Mark Poynton of Caistor Hall has been named winner of the Best Chef award, sponsored by Motorvogue, at the Norfolk magazine Food & Drink Awards 2024.

Mark started out in catering as a waiter, then a chef.   

He spent eight-and-a-half years at Midsummer House, helping to earn and maintain two Michelin stars before taking his first solo role at Alimentum, where he earned a Michelin star.  

Mark’s classic French cooking style is often described as delicate and feminine.  

His work at Caistor Hall, in Caistor St Edmund, has been transformative, earning a Michelin star in record time. This accomplishment speaks volumes about his skill, creativity and dedication.   

The judges admired Mark’s innovative techniques, meticulous considered approach and artistic presentation, which pushed culinary boundaries.    

Mark’s vision for Caistor Hall is inspiring, and the judges look forward to seeing how his culinary journey continues.  

“It’s brilliant. It’s amazing,” said Mark on his win.  

“It’s accumulative of all the amazing team that work with me.  

“It may seem like an individual award, but I can’t be the Chef of the Year without a team, so it’s a team effort.” 

Finalist: Barry Wood – Bishop's Dining Room & Wine Bar   

Barry started his career at the age of 16 as a kitchen porter at the Norwich Mercure Hotel and has worked in various restaurants since then.  

After being offered the opportunity to run the kitchen at Bishop’s, he led the Norwich restaurant to achieve a two-AA Rosette Award in 2024.   

The judges commended Barry’s dedication in every aspect of his work.  

They said his creations are delicious and testament to his careful consideration and respect for each ingredient.  

Finalist: Mortimer Fraser – The Last  

To say that Mortimer was born into the trade is not an exaggeration – coming from a family of hospitality veterans and cooking from an early age.  

He has worked at and trained at some of the best restaurants in Norfolk and London and is now head chef at The Last in Norwich.  

The judges said Mortimer’s passion and leadership suggest a promising future for The Last.  

Finalist: Thomas Aubrit – L’Hexagone Bistro Français

Thomas trained at La Rochelle in France for four years before moving to the UK in 2017 and opening L’Hexagone Bistro Français in Norwich in 2020.  

He takes pride in cooking with love, using the freshest local ingredients, and credits his mother and her cooking as his inspiration.  

The judges said that Thomas has successfully created an authentic dining experience that beautifully reflects a connection to French culinary traditions. 

To find out more about all of the Norfolk Food & Drink Awards 2024 winners, please click here.

Keep an eye out for details of next year's awards at norfolkfada.co.uk