Ironbridge chef named Midlands Chef of the Year

An Ironbridge chef has been named Midlands Chef of the Year 2026 after more than 25 years of serving Salopians.

Chef Suree Coates, chef‑patron of Suree’s Kitchen at the White Hart in Ironbridge, received the title at the Midlands Food, Drink and Hospitality Awards in Birmingham on Monday evening.

The accolade saw her recognised ahead of chefs from across the region, including Birmingham, Coventry and the wider Midlands.

Suree, former chef at The King and Thai in Broseley, opened the intimate Wharfage restaurant in 2019.

For more than two decades she has built a reputation for authentic Thai cooking, drawing on family recipes, freshly ground spices, homemade sauces and seasonal ingredients sourced from Shropshire and neighbouring suppliers.

Chef Suree said: “To receive Midlands Chef of the Year is something I never imagined. I simply wanted to share the food I grew up with and create a place where everyone feels welcome. I love sharing my passion for authentic Thai food, delicate flavours and the region’s amazing producers.

“I cook every dish as if I were cooking for my own family. This award belongs as much to my customers, supporters and team as it does to me and the people of Shropshire.”

James Day, Shropshire hospitality consultant and long-time supporter of Suree’s Kitchen, said: “Suree has shown what passion, integrity and hard work can achieve.

“She has created something genuinely special in Ironbridge and this award recognises not only her skill as a chef, but also her authenticity, generosity and commitment to her customers and community.

“I have have been privileged to work with many acclaimed UK chefs, including michelin stars and media chefs, but none is a hard working and dedicated as Chef Suree. It is a real success for Shropshire to bring this award home.

“At a time when many established restaurants and pubs are sadly closing, it is encouraging to see such a positive story for the region’s food scene. Hopefully it will attract new customers to visit Ironbridge and Shropshire burgeoning food seen, from across the regions.”