By Isle of Wight Observer
Isle of Wight Pearl has appointed award-winning chef, Mark Wyatt, as the new head chef at its Pearl Café, following a recent refurbishment of the venue.
Mr Wyatt’s arrival signals a new approach for the café, focusing on fine-dining quality food, designed for everyday dining, served with views across the coastline. The updated menu has been developed to balance classical cooking techniques with familiar dishes, presented in a relaxed café setting.
Alongside the refreshed menu, the Pearl Café has introduced a series of weekday food offers, aimed at making chef-led food more accessible. These include two main meals for £20 on Mondays, half-price brunch on Thursdays, a complimentary glass of wine on Wednesdays, and a children’s meal for £1 on Tuesdays.
Mr Wyatt is classically trained, and brings experience from leading kitchens awarded two AA Rosettes and a Michelin Bib Gourmand. He began his career in North Yorkshire before spending three years at The Savoy Hotel in London, where he developed his approach to ingredient-led cooking.
Since taking up the role, he has overseen a complete overhaul of the café menu. New dishes include a gourmet hash brown, freshly-made crab cakes, beef with Guinness and dumplings, and beer-battered fish and chips served with home-made tartare sauce and charred lemon.
Looking ahead, the Pearl Café plans to introduce seasonal specials, redeveloped afternoon teas, and a new events space. The aim is to establish the café as a social setting for dining and gatherings, alongside its existing role as a visitor destination.
Mal Butler