Meet the Chef
Led by Executive Chef and General Manager Richie Herkes, Northcote Manor's talented kitchen team is dedicated to creating exceptional food and unforgettable dining experiences. Working alongside Head Chefs Henry Burrows and Guillaume Taurines, Richie brings his renowned passion, creativity and pursuit of perfection to every aspect of the restaurant.
Together, the team combines skill, innovation and meticulous attention to detail to craft memorable menus that celebrate the finest, local ingredients. Their shared commitment to culinary excellence ensures every guest enjoys an outstanding dining experience that reflects the warm hospitality and high standards synonymous with Northcote Manor.
Executive Chef – Richie Herkes
Richie’s career began at the Montagu Arms in the New Forest before training with Michelin-starred chef John Mann and becoming a Head Chef at just 21. After further success at the prestigious Llangoed Hall Hotel in the Brecon Beacons, he joined Northcote Manor, where he has spent more than two decades developing its reputation for exceptional food and hospitality.
Working alongside Head Chefs Henry Burrows and Guillaume Taurines, Richie continues to drive the high standards that have helped establish Northcote Manor as one of Devon’s finest boutique country house hotels.
Joining Northcote Manor in 2003, Richie has played a pivotal role in shaping the hotel’s award-winning dining experience. Now Executive Chef and General Manager, he leads the culinary team with a passion for creativity, excellence and seasonal local produce, helping secure consistent 2 AA Rosettes for culinary excellence.
While Henry and Guillaume now lead on menu creation, you can still sample Richie’s signature style when you book to enjoy Northcote’s gourmet menu.
Head Chef – Henry Burrows
Henry's first kitchen job was at The Black Venus pub in Challacombe. He worked there for two years before moving on to working under Michelin star chef Michael Caines at Kentisbury Grange. He also studied three years at catering college.
He joined the team at Northcote Manor in 2015 as a Chef de Partie and has worked his way up to become head chef alongside Guillaume. His creative dishes are highly rated and loved by our guests, and we're always excited to see what he puts together next.
Head Chef – Guillaume Taurines
Guillaume worked alongside Richie at the renowned Llangoed Hall Hotel in the Brecon Beacons before bringing his talent and experience to the team at Northcote Manor. During his time there, he refined his skills in creating high-quality dishes inspired by seasonal ingredients.
At Northcote Manor, Guillaume works seamlessly alongside Henry in the kitchen, combining creativity, precision, and a shared passion for exceptional food. Together, they craft mouth-watering dishes that showcase the very best produce from the region, balancing traditional flavours with modern flair.