Kigh Johnson has been appointed as the new executive chef at ISCA Restaurant & Bar at voco Zeal Exeter Science Park.
The news came shortly after the restaurant won three gold awards at the Food Drink Devon awards, in addition to being named as a Sustainable Pioneer. Johnson brings with him extensive experience in the sector, including Michelin and AA Rosette venues.
Johnson said: “I’m thrilled to be joining ISCA and building on the incredible reputation the team has created. Sustainability and a genuine commitment to local produce are incredibly important to me and it’s great to be joining a team that shares those values. I’ve always believed that food should be memorable and enjoyable. My own journey into becoming a chef started at school, when a design and technology teacher stepped in at short notice to cover home economics and cooked smoked salmon tagliatelle. At the time, it was the best thing I’d ever eaten and that moment stayed with me. I’m looking forward to bringing that same sense of enjoyment and discovery to ISCA, while creating sustainable food and collaborative dining experiences that our guests will remember.”
Barnaby Kean, GM, voco Zeal Exeter Science Park, said: “We’re privileged to be working with someone of Kigh’s calibre and we’re looking forward to seeing and tasting his take on sustainable cuisine. Kigh’s experience and his knowledge of the local area give him a unique understanding of how we can make the most of the fantastic produce available to us here in Devon. His passion for sustainability, seasonality and reducing waste aligns perfectly with our own values, and we’re excited to see him bring those principles to life through thoughtful, creative and delicious dishes.”
ISCA adheres to responsible-sourcing guidelines for seafood, supporting fisheries and farms that maintain healthy fish populations and aquatic ecosystems. The menu prioritises diverse plant-based dishes and carefully selected, high-quality meats from ethical sources.
The restaurant is also committed to initiatives that uplift the surrounding community, contributing to its overall wellbeing, including as centre of knowledge, sharing insights on sustainable practices and promoting a culture of learning.
To find out more about ISCA Restaurant & Bar or to book a table head on over to the website and follow them on Instagram.
