Michelin-starred chef Alex Payne has been appointed Chef Patron of Sorrel in Dorking, Surrey, with his role commencing on 16 June 2025.

Formerly of the Michelin-starred restaurant The Tudor Pass at Great Fosters Hotel in Egham, Alex brings a wealth of experience, creativity, and culinary excellence to his new role. Under his leadership at The Tudor Pass, Alex earned his first Michelin star just six months after opening, along with four AA Rosettes and the No. 3 spot on TripAdvisor’s Best of the Best Fine Dining Restaurants in the UK, a testament to his exceptional talent and dedication. His career includes time in the kitchens of celebrated chefs such as Heston Blumenthal and Gordon Ramsay, where he honed his skills in multiple Michelin-starred environments.

Known for his passion, energy, and flair for culinary theatre, Alex’s approach to fine dining is rooted in classical flavours, elevated by modern techniques and seasonal ingredients. His arrival marks an exciting new chapter for Sorrel, as he brings his signature style and vision to the restaurant’s respected and acclaimed offering.

“I’m excited to carry forward the incredible legacy that Steve has built here at Sorrel,” said Alex Payne. “My focus is on celebrating the best seasonal and locally sourced ingredients to craft bold, memorable flavours. I deeply respect classical dishes and timeless flavours, and my aim is to refine and reimagine them in ways that surprise and delight. I want every guest to leave with an experience they’ll remember for years to come, showcasing the finest local produce and precise techniques to let each flavour shine.”

Steve Drake, who opened Sorrel in 2017 and achieved a Michelin star shortly after, will evolve his role from Chef Patron to Restaurant Owner. Over his career, Steve has owned and led three restaurants to Michelin star success, establishing himself as a well-known and highly respected chef in the UK. A Roux Scholarship winner, Steve now plans to dedicate more time to his other business ventures, including Steve Drake Food, as well as several exciting new projects currently in the pipeline.

“I’m thrilled to welcome Alex to Sorrel,” said Steve Drake. “He’s a chef of exceptional skill and vision, and I’m confident he’ll help shape the restaurant’s next chapter with his unique perspective and culinary creativity. It’s an exciting time for all of us at Sorrel. I’m incredibly proud of everything we’ve built together, and I look forward to working alongside Alex as a business partner. I’ll remain closely involved behind the scenes, supporting the team and helping guide Sorrel’s future.”

Under Alex Payne’s leadership, Sorrel will continue its commitment to delivering world-class dining, showcasing the best of British ingredients in innovative and memorable ways.

Sorrel is a Michelin-starred restaurant located in the heart of Dorking. It offers a lunch service from Friday to Sunday, with dinner available Wednesday through to Saturday.