3 February 2025
At Fildes, we believe great food starts with a great chef, and we’re thrilled to introduce the man behind the magic – Executive Chef Tom Rains. With a career spanning some of the world’s finest kitchens, Tom brings a wealth of experience, passion, and creativity to the heart of The Montpellier Wine Bar.
Tom’s culinary journey began in an unexpected place – the local sea cadets. A simple cookery competition ignited a lifelong passion for food, setting him on a path that would lead to some of the most prestigious kitchens in the world. His first steps into the professional kitchen began with an apprenticeship at the renowned Lygon Arms in the Cotswolds, where he learned the foundations of classical cooking and honed his skills under expert guidance.
Tom’s ambition and talent saw him rise through the ranks of London’s elite dining establishments, including The Berkeley, Claridge’s, L’Escargot, and Mosimann’s. His thirst for knowledge and new experiences then took him to Switzerland, where he worked at the legendary Gstaad Palace, further refining his craft in an international setting.
Throughout his career, Tom has had the privilege of working alongside culinary greats such as Anton Mosimann OBE, John Williams MBE, Paul Gayler MBE, Simon Hopkinson, and Marco Pierre White. These experiences have shaped his approach to cooking – blending classical techniques with modern innovation while staying true to the integrity of each ingredient.
Now, Tom is bringing his impressive expertise back to his beloved Cotswolds, leading the kitchen at Fildes. His menus celebrate the best of seasonal, locally sourced ingredients, creating dishes that are both beautifully simple and full of depth. His philosophy? Good, honest cooking with a pinch of creativity and a side of wow factor.
Tom’s passion for food goes beyond the plate – it’s about storytelling, tradition, and a sense of place. His time at Cheltenham’s iconic The Daffodil holds special significance, as it was there he met his wife, Jules, and partnered with Elliott to create something truly special. Now, at Fildes, he’s on a new adventure, blending his love for the region with a world-class culinary pedigree.
Under Tom’s leadership, Fildes is set to become a must-visit destination for food lovers. Expect menus that evolve with the seasons, dishes that highlight the best local produce, and a dining experience that’s both refined and welcoming. Whether it’s a show-stopping signature dish or a perfectly executed classic, every plate is a testament to Tom’s skill, passion, and dedication to the craft.
Join us at Fildes and experience the magic of Chef Tom Rains for yourself. Book your table today and get ready for a dining experience that’s as memorable as the stories behind it.
