Ryan Simpson-Trotman
Chef Patron
Born and raised in Warwickshire, Ryan’s passion for food was sparked during a summer spent in France. After completing his initial training in the UK, he moved to Roanne to continue his culinary education, spending almost six years in France and gaining experience in acclaimed kitchens including Maison Troisgros, Pierre Gagnaire and Guy Savoy.
On returning to the UK, Ryan worked at Restaurant Gordon Ramsay, Sketch, The Langham and The Elephant in Torquay before moving on to Winteringham Fields. He later became head chef at The Goose in Britwell Salome, where he earned a Michelin star within 18 months.
Liam Simpson-Trotman
Chef Patron
Hailing from Liverpool, Liam’s passion for food was inspired by his nan’s cooking. He began his professional career at 60 Hope Street before leaving home at the age of 19 to join Bovey Castle in Devon. After three years of hard work, he met Ryan, and the pair began a journey that would lead them to Orwells Restaurant just three years later.
Sixteen years on, Orwells has held four AA Rosettes for ten of those years—a testament to Liam and Ryan’s shared passion, dedication and commitment to exceptional food and hospitality.
Tomas Topolar
Head Chef
Growing up in the Czech Republic, Tomas developed a keen interest in cooking from an early age. After moving to the UK in 2012, he joined Gilbey’s in Amersham, where he worked his way up through the kitchen ranks. He went on to gain experience in several outstanding kitchens, including The Griffin in Old Amersham, before taking on his first head chef role at The Mash Inn in Radnage. In June 2026, Tomas joined the Orwells team, bringing with him a wealth of experience, creativity and passion for great food.
Meg Hearn
Chef
A local girl with a passion for food from an early age, Meg Hearn spent several years working within her family’s catering business, building a strong foundation in hospitality and the kitchen. Along the way, she also enjoyed short stints in France during the ski seasons, broadening her experience and love of food. Now ready to take the next step in her career, Meg has joined the team at Orwells, where she is focused on honing her skills, developing her technique and growing behind the stoves.
Rory Wilkie
Chef
Rory Wilke joined the Orwells team two years ago, beginning his journey on the pot wash. It quickly became clear that he had a genuine interest in cooking and a real passion for food, so before long he made the move into the kitchen. Since then, Rory has continued to develop his skills and can now be found on the pastry section, quietly doing his thing and becoming an increasingly important part of the brigade.