Mark Hix joins the Groucho Club as food and beverage director

The industry stalwart Mark Hix has been named the new director of food and beverage at the Groucho Club.

Not only does the move mark a return to the London restaurant scene for Hix, but it also represents a step forward at the Soho members’ club since it was bought by the hospitality group Artfarm in the summer.

Artfarm CEO Ewan Venters said: ‘I am thrilled to welcome Mark back to his spiritual home. He has been a member of The Groucho for more than 30 years, and he understands the special nature of this club. Mark is one of my food heroes.

‘He was almost single-handedly responsible for putting modern British cooking on the map, and I am sure our members, their guests and those hiring our unique event spaces, will welcome his trademark flourishes on the menu.’

Hix has been synonymous with London’s dining scene for decades, having made his name as chef-director for Caprice Holdings and overseeing venues such as The Ivy, Le Caprice, and Scott’s.

His own self-titled group was established in 2007, but closed in 2020 in the midst of the Covid pandemic. Since then, he has been concentrating on The Oyster & Fish House in Lyme Regis in his native Dorset.

He said: ‘The chance to work at the Groucho was irresistible to me. I have worked with Ewan on several projects previously, and this club is part of the fabric of my life.

‘ The Groucho represents everything that’s great in a members’ club – it is welcoming, familiar and eclectic. You can walk in on your own and suddenly find yourself having the most interesting conversation with a like-minded soul you’ve never met before. It manages to be both cosy and glamorous.’

Hix said he will be updating the menu and will be placing a greater emphasis on British food – the style for which the chef is known. Shepherd’s pie and a host of other signature dishes are on the way.