Linden Stores Chris Boustead Named Cheshire Chef of the Year
Head Chef and co-owner Chris Boustead of Knutsford’s acclaimed neighbourhood restaurant, Linden Stores, has been named Cheshire Chef of the Year, recognising his outstanding talent and creativity in the kitchen. The award was presented at the prestigious Cheshire Life Food & Drink Awards 2025 and marks another highlight for the restaurant, which also received an AA Rosette for culinary excellence earlier this spring. The night also saw Kory Bebbington, a rising talent in the Linden Stores kitchen, shortlisted for Young Chef of the Year, further highlighting the achievements of the team.
The annual awards shine a spotlight on the very best of the region’s food and drink scene, with the Chef of the Year title recognising individuals who consistently deliver exceptional cooking, creativity and leadership.
Since opening Linden Stores in Knutsford in November 2023 with partner and co-owner Laura Christie, Chris has helped position the restaurant as one of the area’s most exciting dining destinations. Renowned for his dedication to seasonality, local sourcing and bold flavours, Chris’s menus celebrate the very best of British produce, from seasonal specialities to signature dishes such as house focaccia with sea salt & rosemary butter and layered crispy potatoes.
Earlier this year, Linden Stores was awarded an AA Rosette, a hallmark of excellence given only to the best restaurants in the UK. This latest win reaffirms the team’s commitment to delivering an exceptional dining experience, combining innovative dishes with warm, attentive service.
Laura Christie comments:
“Seeing Chris recognised as Chef of the Year is just incredible. He puts so much energy, passion and creativity into every plate, and this award is such a well-deserved acknowledgement of that. For Kory to also be shortlisted for Young Chef of the Year makes us even prouder, it’s a testament to the strength and talent of our whole team.”
Chris Boustead adds:
“To be named Chef of the Year in such a competitive food region is a huge honour. It’s been an amazing year for us already with the AA Rosette and this recognition really reflects the hard work and dedication of everyone at Linden Stores. We’re proud to be part of Knutsford’s thriving food scene and to help put the town on the culinary map.”
Linden Stores continues to go from strength to strength, offering both an à la carte and Chef’s Menu of seasonal sharing plates, paired with Laura’s expertly curated wine list of biodiverse and small-batch producers. Guests can look forward to an ever-evolving menu and special events, including the inaugural Knutsford Wine Fair on 23rd November (£30pp). The event features 20+ exceptional wines presented by the winemakers, paired with seasonal dishes from Linden Stores. Guests can meet producers, discover new favourites and purchase bottles to take home. Every ticket includes a goodie bag and children are welcome, with a juice tasting stand to challenge young taste buds.
For information on upcoming events and to find out more about Linden Stores, please visit: https://www.lindenstores.co.uk/
To make a reservation, please visit: https://www.lindenstores.co.uk/pages/book-your-table
For updates from Laura and Chris, follow them on Instagram: @lindenstores
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Linden Stores
Linden Stores is a family run spot in beautiful Knutsford serving an exciting menu of seasonal British sharing plates alongside an interesting wine list.
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